Instant Insight
30-Second Take
- Donald Trump’s approval ratings are among the lowest for any president in recent history.
- President Trump’s ratings have seen a decline, particularly among younger Americans and independents.
- Historical comparisons show President Trump’s ratings are significantly lower than those of his predecessors at similar points in their presidencies.
+ Dive Deeper
Quick Brief
2-Minute Digest
Essential Context
As of February 2025, President Trump’s job approval rating stands at around 45-46%, a figure that is notably low compared to historical averages for presidents at this stage in their term. This rating is also reflective of a broader trend of polarized public opinion, with significant partisan gaps in approval.
Core Players
- President Trump – President of the United States
- Republicans – Broadly supportive of President Trump’s policies, with high approval ratings within the party
- Democrats – Overwhelmingly disapprove of President Trump’s performance
- Independents – Have shown a decline in support for President Trump’s policies
Key Numbers
- 45% – President Trump’s current job approval rating[1][2]
- 46% – Approval rating on immigration issues
- 44% – Approval rating on foreign affairs
- 42% – Approval rating on the economy
- 89% – Partisan gap in approval ratings, one of the highest recorded
+ Full Analysis
Full Depth
Complete Coverage
The Catalyst
President Trump’s low approval ratings are driven by several factors, including his handling of key policy areas and the increasingly polarized political environment. Recent polls indicate a decline in support, especially among younger Americans and independents[2).
“His popularity has particularly dropped among younger Americans,” a trend that could have significant implications for his future political standing.
Inside Forces
President Trump’s administration has been marked by a series of contentious issues, including immigration, foreign affairs, and economic policies. Republicans continue to show strong support, but Democrats and independents have been increasingly critical. For instance, President Trump’s approval on the economy stands at 42%, lower than his first-term ratings and those of his predecessors[1).
The partisan divide is stark, with 93% of Republicans approving of President Trump’s job performance, compared to just 4% of Democrats[1).
Power Dynamics
The relationship between President Trump and other political entities, such as Congress and the judiciary, has been tense. President Trump’s attempts to extend executive power, including withholding congressionally-appropriated funds, have been met with resistance. More Americans believe these funds should be spent rather than withheld, and there is a general consensus that federal judge rulings should be followed[2).
Democrats are increasingly critical of President Trump’s actions, with 70% saying congressional Democrats are not doing enough to resist his policies[2).
Outside Impact
The broader implications of President Trump’s low approval ratings extend beyond domestic politics. Internationally, his foreign policy decisions, such as those regarding Ukraine and the Middle East, have received mixed reviews. Americans are more likely to sympathize with the Palestinians than ever before, indicating a shift in public opinion on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict[2).
The economic and foreign policy landscapes are also affected, with markets and international relations influenced by the president’s approval and policy decisions.
Future Forces
Looking ahead, President Trump’s approval ratings will likely continue to influence his policy agenda and political standing. The upcoming months will be crucial as voters assess his performance and make decisions about future support. Key areas to watch include antitrust enforcement, labor regulations, and data privacy requirements, which could see significant changes based on President Trump’s policies and public perception[2).
Historical context suggests that first-term ratings can set a precedent for future approval, making the current ratings a critical indicator of President Trump’s long-term political viability.
Data Points
- February 2025: President Trump’s job approval rating stands at 45-46%[1][2]
- January 2025: President Trump began his second term with a surge in popularity that has since faded[2]
- 89% – Partisan gap in approval ratings, a record high[1]
- 42% – Approval rating on the economy, lower than historical averages[1]
- 70% – Democrats who believe congressional Democrats are not doing enough to resist President Trump’s policies[2]
The ongoing trends in President Trump’s approval ratings highlight the deep divisions within American politics. As the country moves forward, these ratings will continue to shape policy discussions, political alliances, and ultimately, the future of U.S. leadership.
