A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll indicates a slight decline in former U.S. President Donald Trump’s approval rating, with growing economic worries among Americans contributing to the shift.
The six-day survey, which concluded on Tuesday, found that 44% of respondents approved of Trump’s performance, marking a slight decrease from 45% in late January. Meanwhile, his disapproval rating has risen to 51%, up from 41% shortly after he took office.
Trump continues to receive significant support for his immigration policies, with 47% of Americans backing his stance, particularly his commitment to stricter deportation measures.
However, economic concerns have played a role in the dip in his approval, as 53% of respondents now believe the economy is on the wrong track, an increase from 43% in January. His approval rating for handling economic matters has also declined, falling to 39% from the previous 43%.
A major factor in Trump’s political standing has been the perception of his economic policies benefiting the country. However, his approval rating on economic issues remains lower than the 53% recorded in February 2017.
The poll also highlights public dissatisfaction with Trump’s response to inflation, with only 32% of respondents approving of his performance in this area.
Rising consumer prices have been a key concern, and the U.S. Labour Department recently reported the sharpest increase in inflation in nearly 18 months. This surge is partly linked to Trump’s decision to impose steep tariffs on imports from China, Mexico, and Canada. While tariffs on Mexico and Canada were delayed, the administration still planned to enforce tariffs on steel and aluminium starting in March.
Additionally, the poll found that 54% of Americans oppose new tariffs on imports, while 41% support them. However, there is slightly more approval for tariffs on Chinese goods, with 49% in favor and 47% opposed.
