President Trump’s Approval: Winning the Crowd, But the Issues Tell a Deeper Tale
Bottom Line: President Trump is still riding a wave of net positive average approval ratings—a feat he never managed during his first term. Even better for Trump? He’s fresh off a slight bump from last week’s commanding address to a joint session of Congress. Before the speech, his net approval sat at a modest +1.5%. Now, post-address polls show him averaging a sharper +4%—a cool 20-points higher than President Biden’s brutal numbers. But while Trump’s personal stock is soaring, how’s he faring on the issues that hit Americans where it hurts? Here’s the breakdown.
The Numbers Don’t Lie: Trump vs. Biden
Across the board, Trump’s approval ratings crush Biden’s like a sledgehammer through glass. Yet, only one of his key issue ratings is currently swimming above the waterline:
- Immigration: +5% (Biden: a brutal –31%)
- Economy: –4% (Biden: –21%)
- Foreign Policy: –6% (Biden: –26%)
- Inflation: –10% (Biden: –29%)
Trump’s outpacing Biden by double digits on every front, but those negative numbers on the economy, foreign policy, and inflation hint at a public that’s still skeptical about his early moves. Immigration’s the lone bright spot—perhaps a nod to his border-focused rhetoric striking a chord.
A Flip of the Script
Here’s where it gets juicy: Seven weeks into Trump’s second act, the vibe is almost a mirror image of his first term. Back then, his policy chops—especially on the economy and foreign policy—won over the crowd, even as his personal approval tanked. Now? He’s got the people’s affection, but his handling of the big issues isn’t quite sealing the deal. It’s a fascinating twist, and one that could shape his next moves.
Why It Matters
With Congress soon to tackle Trump’s budget plan—a linchpin for his immigration, foreign policy, and economic ambitions—this dynamic is worth watching. The more political capital he’s got, the better his odds of pushing his agenda through the legislative gauntlet. Perception is power, and right now, Trump’s got a window to flex it.
Biden’s Shadow Looms Large
One thing this spot check screams loud and clear? President Biden’s tenure was a trainwreck in the eyes of most Americans. Those cratered approval numbers—–31% on immigration, –29% on inflation—paint a picture of a leader who lost the plot and potentially his mind along the way... Trump’s not just beating him; he’s lapping him.
The Road Ahead
Can Trump turn those lukewarm issue ratings into wins? Will his personal popularity carry him through the budget battles? Stay tuned—this is one political ride you won’t want to miss.