Washington — The White House spent much of the week on the defensive as President Donald Trump’s approval rating fell sharply in national polling averages. According to RealClearPolitics, his rating dropped about four points, signaling growing political vulnerability.

The slide reflects pressure from multiple fronts. While Democrats and civil-rights groups remain critical, concern is also emerging from conservative commentators and right-leaning media figures who had previously been reliable allies.

Much of the backlash centers on three issues: aggressive immigration enforcement, renewed controversy surrounding documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein, and the president’s increasingly casual rhetoric about elections and executive power.

Tensions peaked during a contentious White House briefing led by press secretary Karoline Leavitt. A heated exchange over the killing of Renee Nicole Good during an immigration operation went viral after Leavitt accused a reporter of bias, drawing praise from supporters and alarm from press-freedom advocates.

Immigration tactics themselves are under scrutiny. ICE and Border Patrol operations in cities such as Chicago and Minneapolis, often involving masked agents and military-style gear, have drawn criticism from local leaders who warn of civil-liberties violations.

Leavitt also faced pushback for claiming the administration had “defeated” inflation and that some drug prices had dropped by more than 500 percent. Economists disputed the math, noting that while inflation has eased, such dramatic claims lack evidence.

Further controversy followed remarks in which Trump suggested future elections might not be necessary. Though framed by aides as jokes, critics argue such language fuels unease given his past challenges to election legitimacy.

With additional friction over foreign policy rhetoric and dissent within conservative media, the administration faces a broader challenge. Allies warn that beyond policy disputes, tone and pattern are increasingly shaping public trust.