Eleven weeks into his second administration, President Donald Trump continues to exert his influence at a breakneck pace. Since his inauguration on January 20, Trump has signed 111 executive orders—an unprecedented number compared to his predecessors.
“More than any in American history,” Trump proudly stated last week.
The president’s executive actions have significantly expanded the powers of the office, reshaping long-standing government policies and implementing major reductions in the federal workforce. While his administration touts these moves as necessary reforms, they have also sparked intense debate among policymakers and the public.
Public Opinion and Approval Ratings
Despite Trump’s assertive governance, national polls indicate a decline in his approval ratings. A Reuters/Ipsos survey conducted from March 31 to April 2 places his approval at 43%, with a disapproval rating of 53%. Similarly, a Wall Street Journal poll from March 27 to April 1 shows Trump slightly underwater, with 46% approving and 51% disapproving of his performance.
Conversely, a recent Daily Mail survey suggests a more favorable rating. However, the majority of national polls since mid-March reflect growing dissatisfaction.
At the beginning of his second term, Trump’s approval ratings hovered in the low 50s, while disapproval remained in the mid-40s. The current downward trend is largely attributed to increasing economic concerns, particularly inflation—an issue that also plagued former President Joe Biden’s tenure.
Economic Uncertainty and Market Reactions
One of the key contributors to the president’s slipping approval is anxiety over the economy. Trump’s recent announcement of new tariffs ignited tensions with major trading partners, triggering a significant financial market sell-off and raising fears of an impending recession.
Addressing concerns about market instability, Trump remarked, “Sometimes you have to take medicine to fix something.”
According to the Reuters/Ipsos poll, only 37% of Americans approve of Trump’s handling of the economy, while 52% disapprove. The Wall Street Journal poll offers slightly better numbers—44% approval versus 52% disapproval—yet still indicates widespread concern.
Daron Shaw, a political analyst at the University of Texas and a Fox News Decision Team member, described the economy as “the 800-pound gorilla.” He noted that Trump faces increasing challenges in convincing the public that his economic policies, including tariffs, will ultimately benefit the country.
“He’s losing the narrative,” Shaw observed. “He’s got to make the case that tariffs are part of a larger economic plan that’s going to address the concerns people have.”
Immigration and Border Security: A Stronghold Issue
While Trump struggles with economic approval, his handling of immigration and border security remains one of his strongest points. Both the Reuters/Ipsos and Wall Street Journal polls indicate positive ratings in this area. Immigration was a key issue that propelled Trump back into the White House, and his policies have made significant impacts.
However, Shaw argues that Trump’s success in securing the border has paradoxically diminished its urgency as a political issue. “One of the problems of succeeding is that it’s something you no longer really talk about. It’s no longer at the top of people’s issue priorities,” he explained.
The Bigger Picture
Despite fluctuating approval ratings, Trump’s numbers remain stronger than those of his first term. Veteran Republican pollster Neil Newhouse pointed out that Trump’s support within his party is more solidified than it was during his initial presidency.
“Keep these numbers in perspective,” Newhouse advised. “The numbers he’s averaging right now are still higher than he was at any point during his first presidency. His Republican base is strongly behind him.”
As Trump continues to navigate his second term, the key question remains: Can he maintain public confidence while pushing forward with his aggressive policy agenda?
Keep up with Trump’s administration with us on Que Onda Magazine.