Trump’s Approval Ratings Slip Underwater as Polls Show Growing Economic Concerns
President Donald Trump’s approval ratings have fallen below the break-even point according to comprehensive polling averages, despite his recent March 4 address to a joint session of Congress which aimed to bolster public support.
Silver Bulletin’s analysis shows Trump’s approval rating averages now clearly underwater at 47.3% positive and 49.0% negative. RealClearPolitics, which uses a simpler averaging methodology, confirms this downward trend, with Trump’s net approval rating dropping from +1.2% on March 4 to -0.7% by March 13.
Polling data reveals significant disparities across policy areas. According to RealClearPolitics averages, immigration remains Trump’s strongest issue, with 51.0% approval versus 44.9% disapproval, giving him a +6.1% net positive rating. However, his handling of foreign policy shows a net negative of -8.6%, with 43.2% approving and 51.8% disapproving.
The economy appears to be driving much of the decline, with RCP averages showing 51.3% disapproving of Trump’s economic management compared to 43.6% approving, creating a -7.7% spread. His handling of inflation fares even worse, with a -12.2% spread (41.3% approve, 53.5% disapprove).
A March 13 Quinnipiac poll indicates economic anxiety has intensified since Trump took office, with 76% of voters now describing the economy as either “not so good” or “poor,” up from 64% in December under the previous administration. The S&P 500’s recent entry into correction territory, losing more than 10% in three weeks, has likely contributed to these concerns.
The Emerson College poll notes Trump’s overall approval rating has declined from 49%-41% to 47%-45%, reflecting “a nation deeply divided.” Their data shows voters are “most supportive of Trump’s immigration policy, but they disapprove of his handling of the economy, believe tariffs will hurt economic growth, and are skeptical of his cryptocurrency policy.”
Public opinion on the administration’s efforts to cut federal spending and reduce government workforce appears largely negative, according to recent polling. A CNN poll conducted by SSRS (March 6-9, 2025) reveals significant skepticism about Elon Musk’s role in these initiatives. Only 35% of Americans view Musk favorably, compared to 53% who rate him negatively. The tech billionaire faces credibility challenges, with approximately 60% of respondents doubting he possesses either the appropriate experience or judgment to reform government operations.
Notably, Musk’s unpopularity extends beyond partisan lines, with the CNN poll indicating that 28% of those who support Trump’s government changes still question Musk’s judgment to implement them. This skepticism, combined with independents disapproving of Musk and DOGE by a 68% to 28% margin in separate polling, suggests these administrative choices may further challenge Trump’s standing as economic uncertainties persist.
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