Weekly political update – Where news & perceptions meet reality
Bottom Line: This is your weekly reality check. What's really going on with public opinion of the president and our view of the direction of the country? Here it is...
- Trump's lowest rating: 37% approval (8/4/17)
- Trump highest approval rating: 47% approval (12/6/19)
- Trump's current rating: 45% approval
This week marked the first one in months, arguably years, in which impeachment efforts haven't been hanging over President Trump's head. He began the week by laying out his budget and in conjunction with the Justice Department has gone on the offensive against sanctuary states and local governments. The Trump administration filed suit against California, New Jersey and a county government in Washington. Additionally, with the promise of additional action coming, New York Governor Andrew Cuomuo opted to meet with President Trump to work on terms of compliance with reporting of immigration status to federal authorities. The week concludes with China cutting tariffs on US goods as mandated by the Phase 1 China trade deal as promised.
It’s endemic of the Trump Presidency, full speed ahead on his promised agenda regardless of the political landscape, media coverage, or efforts to undermine his administration. It’s also why the president continues to enjoy approval ratings that are among the highest of his presidency. Add in the record economic performance, including new stock market records again this week and there’s a lot for the president to feel good about right now.
As usual, the more informed and engaged people are, the more likely they are to approve of President Trump.
- Adult only samples: N/A
- Registered voters: 45%
- Likely voters: 50%
What you never hear reported are the ratings of the Democratic leaders opposing him. Here’s the latest...
- Pelosi: 40%
- Schumer: 30%
Much less approved of than President Trump. Failed in their attempted coup. I’m somewhat surprised we didn’t see movement this week after the end of the impeachment trial and Pelosi’s State of the Union antics, but perhaps it satisfied the Democrat’s base.
Looking at the direction of the country this week...
Where we stood on Inauguration Day:
- Right Direction: 30%
Today:
- Right Direction: 39%
Overall, we’re 9% more optimistic than in the aggregate of the Obama years.