In brief
Polling indicates that President Trump's approval ratings in his second term reflect key strengths in border security and crime, while concerns about the economy continue to overshadow his performance. His approval on immigration remains relatively steady but lower, and overall, independents show significant discontent with his economic handling. Additionally, trade and health care are the lowest rated issues among Republicans, revealing a mixed performance across various sectors.
WASHINGTON (AP) — New polling data clarifies President Donald Trump’s second-term strengths and weaknesses. Unlike his first term, where economic issues bolstered his approval, Trump is now seeing a decline in economic favor while focusing more on issues like crime and immigration.
Polls indicate Trump's approval rating sits at 39% among U.S. adults, similar to his earlier term averages. While his performance on the economy has faced criticism, particularly among independents, he has cultivated a stronger public perception concerning border security and crime management.
Key Strengths: Border Security and Crime Management
In Trump's second term, border security has become a prominent strength, garnering significantly higher approval than during his first term. With evaluations of his immigration policies now sitting at 43%, it shows a slight drop yet remains above his overall approval levels. Trump's assertive stance on immigration issues has shifted public opinion, with around half of Americans expressing concerns that his policies may be excessive.
Approximately 46% of respondents approve of Trump’s crime policies, marking a decline from his approval ratings earlier this term, where it peaked at 53%. Among independents, nearly 40% approve of his approach to crime, showcasing a divide in public sentiment.
Weaknesses: Economic Concerns
Conversely, economic issues generate considerable concern, with only 37% of U.S. adults approving of Trump's handling of economic policy, a stark contrast to earlier ratings during his first term. Approval among independents drops to around 20%, highlighting a critical area where Trump struggles to gain support.
Trade and health care rank as the weakest points among Trump’s policy initiatives, receiving about 70% approval from Republicans, and significantly lower on a national scale. Many Americans, including a substantial portion of Republicans, feel that Trump's tariff policies have gone too far.
Foreign Policy Perspectives
Trump also faces declining approval regarding his handling of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with only 37% of U.S. adults expressing support for his policies, down from 44% earlier in the year. Despite these challenges, his foreign policy approval has remained relatively steady.
The recent AP-NORC poll involved 1,183 adults and was conducted from September 11-15, reflecting a sampling margin of error of +/- 3.8 percentage points.
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