WASHINGTON: United States President Donald Trump’s brief post-election momentum appears to be waning, as his approval rating has steadily dropped from 47 percent to 43 percent, according to Gallup.
The dip comes as Americans react to his administration’s early moves, including the controversi al Project 2025 agenda, proposed market-disrupting tariffs, and unusual policy interests — from acquiring Greenland to reshaping US influence in the Gulf.
Despite previously distancing himself from Project 2025 during the campaign, Trump’s swift embrace of its policies has raised concerns, potentially alienating voters and dampening initial support for his presidency, a Vanity Fair correspondent wrote.
According to the publication, Trump’s recent policy decisions, including the proposed renaming of the Gulf of Mexico, discussions about Greenland, and a tariff-heavy trade approach impacting Canada and Mexico, have contributed to a decline in public approval.
Additionally, the government spending cuts have raised concerns, particularly regarding funding for medical research on cancer and Alzheimer’s.
A Harvard-HarrisX poll suggested that billionaire Elon Musk, who has been influencing federal agencies under Trump’s administration, has also seen his favourability rating drop by 10 points from February to March amid ongoing Tesla protests.
Public dissatisfaction with Trump’s leadership is evident across multiple key issues. A recent Associated Press–NORC Center poll indicates that only 38% of Americans approve of his handling of trade negotiations, 40% support his economic policies, and 41 percent back his approach to the Russia-Ukraine war and Social Security. Immigration remains his strongest-polling issue, with 49 percent approval.