Donald Trump’s Popularity Hits Historic Lows Despite Election Victory
Former U.S. President Donald Trump, despite securing an election victory, has been deemed historically unpopular in recent polls, raising questions about his standing with the American people just months after securing another term in office.
A Controversial Start to Trump’s Term
Donald Trump’s return to the White House has been marked by controversy, political division, and widespread public scrutiny. Since being sworn in for his second term on January 20, Trump has faced considerable backlash from various segments of the population, including political opponents, media analysts, and even some former supporters. While his initial victory was touted as a significant political comeback, new data suggests that his overall approval rating is alarmingly low compared to other modern presidents.
When the election results were announced in November 2024, many of Trump’s supporters celebrated what they believed to be a resurgence of American conservatism. His campaign successfully targeted key battleground states and even managed to flip traditionally Democratic strongholds. However, despite these electoral successes, public sentiment regarding his leadership has been less than favorable.
New Polls Suggest Trump’s Approval Ratings Are at an All-Time Low
A recent Gallup poll reveals that Trump’s initial approval ratings are among the lowest in modern U.S. history. The report, compiled by Gallup senior editor Megan Brenan, indicates that only 47% of Americans approve of Trump’s job performance at the start of his second term. While this is slightly better than his 45% rating at the beginning of his first term, it remains significantly lower than the approval ratings of previous presidents.
Brenan notes that, historically, newly elected presidents enjoy a “honeymoon period” characterized by high approval ratings and widespread optimism. Presidents such as John F. Kennedy (1961), Dwight Eisenhower (1953), and Barack Obama (2009) saw initial approval ratings of 68% or higher. In contrast, Trump’s numbers suggest that the public remains deeply divided about his leadership.
Adding to his woes, Trump’s disapproval rating currently sits at 48%, three percentage points higher than in 2017. This means that nearly half of Americans are dissatisfied with his presidency at its outset—a stark contrast to the bipartisan goodwill typically extended to newly elected leaders.
Why Is Trump’s Popularity So Low?
Political analysts cite several reasons for Trump’s historically low approval ratings. Some of the primary factors include:
1. Political Polarization
Trump remains a deeply polarizing figure, and his second-term policies have continued to fuel divisions within American society. While his base remains loyal, a significant portion of the electorate remains skeptical of his leadership.
2. Controversial Executive Orders
Since taking office, Trump has signed a series of executive orders that have drawn widespread criticism. Among the most controversial was his recent decision to revoke the 1965 Equal Employment Opportunity Act, a move that has been condemned by civil rights organizations and progressive politicians.
3. Ongoing Investigations and Legal Challenges
Trump’s presidency has been shadowed by ongoing legal battles and ethics concerns. Reports suggest that various investigations into his business dealings and past political conduct continue to erode public trust in his administration.
4. Dissatisfaction Among Independent Voters
Independent voters, who played a key role in deciding the 2024 election, have expressed frustration with Trump’s approach to governance. Many feel that his policies cater too heavily to his base while neglecting broader national concerns.
High-Profile Figures Speak Out Against Trump
Trump’s unpopularity is not just reflected in the polls—it’s also evident in the opinions of various public figures. Several celebrities, business leaders, and political analysts have openly criticized his administration.
Actress Eva Longoria, for example, has publicly stated that she has left the U.S. and now spends most of her time in Spain and Mexico. Speaking to Marie Claire, she expressed concerns about Trump’s policies, saying, “If he keeps his promises, it’s going to be a scary place.”
Similarly, television personality Ellen DeGeneres and her wife, Portia de Rossi, have reportedly relocated to the U.K. According to sources, the couple has vowed never to return to the U.S. as long as Trump remains in power. An insider told The Wrap that DeGeneres and de Rossi are now living in the Cotswolds and have no plans to return anytime soon.
Trump’s Latest Executive Order Sparks Controversy
One of Trump’s most controversial moves since returning to office has been his decision to revoke the 1965 Equal Employment Opportunity Act. This piece of legislation, originally signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson, was designed to protect individuals from workplace discrimination based on race, gender, national origin, religion, disability, and other factors.
Under Trump’s new executive order, government agencies have been directed to roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The order specifically targets private corporations, large nonprofit organizations, and higher education institutions that receive federal contracts.
The executive order has already sparked significant backlash. Political strategist Basil Smikle Jr. argues that the move undermines decades of progress in civil rights and workplace equality. “This is a clear effort to hinder, if not erode, the political and economic power of people of color and women,” Smikle said in a statement. “It opens the door for more cronyism and less accountability.”
What’s Next for Trump?
Despite the criticism, Trump’s administration remains steadfast in its agenda. His supporters argue that his policies are designed to prioritize American interests and reduce government overreach. However, with his approval ratings at historic lows, Trump faces an uphill battle in uniting the country and maintaining public trust.
Political experts suggest that Trump’s ability to navigate these challenges will determine whether he can secure lasting support or further deepen the political divide in the United States. For now, one thing is certain—Trump’s presidency continues to be one of the most contentious in modern history.
