New polling data from leading U.S. media outlets shows a sharp decline in public support for President Donald Trump, especially among Republicans and independent voters. The surveys, conducted by sources such as the Associated Press-Norc Center for Public Affairs Research, The New York Times/Siena College, and Fox News, suggest that Americans are growing increasingly dissatisfied with Trump’s focus on economic and immigration issues, with some expressing concerns over his potential overreach of presidential powers.

Economic Woes and Falling Approval Ratings

As President Trump approaches the 100-day mark of his second term, his approval ratings have significantly dipped. A poll by The New York Times/Siena College reveals that only 42% of registered voters now approve of Trump’s performance, a sharp decline from the approval numbers seen in his first term. His handling of the economy has also come under fire, with only 43% of Americans expressing support for his policies, a drastic drop from the 64% approval rating seen in April 2024.

Rising inflation and fears of an economic downturn are among the major concerns. An Associated Press survey found that half of Americans are deeply worried about the potential for a recession, and many are concerned that Trump’s trade policies, particularly tariffs, will drive up costs. Among Generation Z voters, 69% expressed disapproval of Trump’s approach to the economy and the increasing cost of living.

Discontent Over Immigration and Presidential Authority

Trump’s immigration policies have also drawn significant backlash. A Washington Post-ABC-Ipsos poll found that 53% of Americans disapprove of his handling of immigration issues. The New York Times/Siena College survey indicated that more than half of respondents believe Trump is overstepping the powers granted to the presidency, with 59% describing his second term as “scary.” Additionally, 63% of voters, including 40% of Republicans, argue that a president should not have the unilateral power to deport legal immigrants who have protested against Israel.

Republicans Divided on Trump’s Focus

While Trump retains support within his party, it is not unanimous. Among Republicans, only 54% believe that he is prioritizing the right issues. In contrast, a mere 9% of independents feel that Trump is addressing the right priorities, with 42% believing he is focused on the wrong issues.

Gen Z’s Growing Frustration

Generation Z, defined as those born between 1995 and 2012, is increasingly critical of Trump’s economic policies. A poll by NBC Stay Tuned found that 69% of Gen Z respondents disapprove of how Trump is managing the economy and dealing with the rising cost of living. Many young people expressed frustration with the difficulty of affording rent and homeownership, with inflation being a significant concern. Additionally, a large majority of Gen Z voters believe that foreign students with visas or green cards should have the same legal protections as U.S. citizens.

Conclusion

As President Trump continues his second term, the latest polling data paints a picture of growing disillusionment among the American public, particularly regarding his handling of the economy and immigration. With support waning even among some Republicans, Trump faces a tough road ahead as his administration navigates increasing criticism and public scrutiny.