Ten months into his second term, President Donald Trump continues to project confidence, boasting of economic strength and foreign-policy victories. But a new CNN/SSRS national poll shows a very different picture. His approval rating has dropped to 37%, down from 47% earlier in the year, reflecting widespread frustration across party lines.
The survey, conducted among 1,245 adults, found that economic concerns dominate public priorities. Forty-seven percent of respondents cited the cost of living as their top issue, far outweighing immigration or national security. Although unemployment remains low, rising prices for food, housing, and healthcare have left many Americans feeling financially squeezed.
These economic strains have damaged perceptions of Trump’s leadership. Sixty-one percent of Americans say his policies have worsened conditions, while just 27% believe they have helped. His foreign-policy record also faces scrutiny, with 56% saying he has harmed America’s global standing through trade battles, sudden military decisions, and strained alliances.
Concerns about presidential overreach further complicate Trump’s standing. A majority of respondents—61%—believe he has exceeded his authority through expansive executive orders, deployments of the National Guard, and unilateral military actions.
The poll’s findings carry major implications for the midterm elections. While Trump’s core supporters remain loyal, 41% of voters say their congressional vote will be cast specifically to oppose him. Analysts warn that this intensity could energize opponents more than supporters.
Trump dismissed the poll results as “fake,” accusing the media of skewing data against him. He highlighted what he calls his economic and foreign-policy successes and insisted he remains strongly supported in “fair polls.”
Meanwhile, broader national tensions continue to grow. A prolonged government shutdown looms, foreign disputes are escalating, and internal frustrations within the administration are mounting.
The poll underscores deep national divisions. Trump retains overwhelming support among Republicans but faces steep disapproval among independents and Democrats. As the country heads toward 2024, his challenge will be to reconnect with voters increasingly uncertain about his leadership.