Trump approval ratings underwater despite positive border security numbers
Four months into his second tour of duty in the White House, President Donald Trump continues to face challenges with his approval ratings. According to recent national surveys by Marquette Law School and Reuters/Ipsos, the president’s approval stands at 46% and 42% respectively, with disapproval ratings at 54% and 52%.
Despite facing negative territory in most polls, Trump has aggressively asserted executive authority in his second term, overturning longstanding government policies and pushing for major cuts to the federal workforce through a series of controversial executive orders. Some of these actions are aimed at addressing grievances he has held since his first term in office.
One area where Trump’s approval ratings remain steady is in border security and immigration. His tough stance on these issues, which were central to his successful 2024 campaign, has garnered him approval ratings of 56% and 50% respectively in the Marquette Law School poll. However, these issues alone are not enough to boost his overall approval ratings.
Political analyst Daron Shaw notes that while immigration and border security were once top concerns for voters, they are beginning to lose steam as other issues take precedence. Trump’s handling of the economy and rising inflation has contributed to his declining approval ratings in recent months. His tariff announcement in April sparked a trade war and market sell-off, raising concerns about a recession. However, a truce with China has helped stabilize the markets.
In the Marquette Law School poll, Trump’s approval on tariffs and inflation stands at 37% and 34% respectively. In the Reuters/Ipsos poll, his approval on the economy and cost of living is at 39% and 33%. GOP strategist Doug Heye points out that last year’s election was won on the promise of lowering prices, which has yet to be realized.
As the economy continues to be a top concern for voters, Trump faces the challenge of bringing down prices to improve his approval ratings. Despite some successes on key issues like border security and immigration, the president will need to address economic concerns to win over more voters in the coming months.
