Trump Achieves Record Approval Rating as Poll Shows Widespread Support for His Policies

Despite a tumultuous beginning to his second term—marked by mass government layoffs, soaring egg prices, a volatile stock market, and intensifying global tariff disputes—Donald Trump’s presidential approval ratings have remained relatively stable during his first month in office.

In an effort to address trade imbalances and stimulate domestic industry, Trump imposed a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum, which prompted swift retaliation from Canada and Europe, with both regions imposing billions of dollars in counter-tariffs. This move was part of his broader strategy to bolster American manufacturing and reduce trade deficits.

Trump himself acknowledged the rocky start in a recent speech to Congress, referring to his presidency’s first weeks as “swift and unrelenting.” He defended a series of controversial policies, including his ongoing crackdown on immigration and border security, his significant cuts to government spending, the mass layoffs of federal employees, and his moves to dismantle initiatives related to diversity and inclusivity in the workforce and education system.

As of now, Trump’s approval rating for his second term stands at an average of 46%, according to the latest Gallup poll. For comparison, his approval rating during his first term averaged 41%, with fluctuations ranging from 34% to 49% throughout his first four years in office. In the first month of his second term, Trump received a favorable rating from 44% of respondents in a Reuters/Ipsos poll, which is higher than his ratings from his first term as well as those of his successor, former President Joe Biden.

Public opinion on specific aspects of his presidency remains mixed. According to the same Reuters poll, 47% of respondents approved of his immigration policy, while 42% disagreed. Meanwhile, a poll conducted by ABC News and Project538 showed 47.7% of Americans approving of Trump’s overall performance, while 54.4% disapproved, with Congress receiving even lower ratings. The vice president, JD Vance, received a slightly higher disapproval rating of 42.8% compared to a 40.8% favorable rating.

The tariff impositions and the fluctuating stock market are likely to influence public opinion further, particularly given the economic consequences tied to these decisions. A recent SSRS/CNN poll from Wednesday revealed that 54% of respondents disapproved of Trump’s presidency, while 45% approved. The gap in approval was more pronounced when it came to specific issues: 51% supported his handling of immigration, 48% backed his management of the federal budget, and 45% were favorable toward his approach to the economy. However, Trump’s handling of tariffs was less well-received, with only 39% approval compared to 61% disapproval, highlighting significant challenges in his economic policies.

Following Trump’s first 50 days in office, an Emerson College Polling survey found that 47% of voters were satisfied with his performance, while 45% were not. This represents a slight decline from the 49% approval and 41% disapproval rating that marked the beginning of his second term.

It’s important to note that public opinion is fluid, and approval ratings can change based on shifting circumstances. Various polling organizations use different demographic samples, so these numbers are subject to fluctuations. As of March 4, 2025, these were the figures reflecting Americans’ views on Trump’s presidency.