President Donald Trump’s approval ratings show a deeply divided public, with recent surveys highlighting mixed reactions to his leadership since returning to office. A CNN poll conducted by SSRS found that 47% of adults approve of Trump’s performance over the past month, while 52% disapprove.
Even with this split, 75% of respondents stated that Trump has governed as expected. But, opinions on this consistency vary: 41% see it as a positive, while 33% view it negatively. This division suggests that while many Americans anticipated Trump’s policy direction and leadership style, his approach has left many voters scratching their heads.
Among the most pressing issues, immigration reform emerged as a top concern, with 28% of respondents identifying it as Trump’s most significant focus. His administration’s plans for large-scale deportations continue to resonate with a segment of his base.
Another priority is the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an initiative led by tech billionaire Elon Musk aimed at reducing federal spending and streamlining the government workforce. This policy ranked as the second-most cited issue, with 12% of respondents noting its importance.
While Trump maintains strong support among his base, concerns persist regarding his handling of broader national issues. More than 55% of respondents believe he has not adequately addressed the country’s most pressing challenges. Additionally, 54% reported feeling anxious about the direction of his presidency.
A Reuters/Ipsos poll further highlights a gradual decline in Trump’s approval rating, now at 44%, with disapproval rising to 51%. This drop follows Trump’s recent imposition of tariffs on major trading partners.
At the end of January, Trump’s approval stood at 49%, according to Emerson College Polling, illustrating how public opinion has fluctuated in response to policy decisions and political developments.
The CNN/SSRS poll, conducted from February 13-17 among 1,206 adults, has a margin of error of ±3.1 percentage points, providing insight into the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Trump’s leadership and decision-making.
