Five months into his second term, President Trump faces sharp public disapproval over his handling of the economy, immigration, and trade, according to a new Quinnipiac poll.
Despite his reelection on promises to boost the economy, deport undocumented immigrants, and impose tariffs, Americans are increasingly unhappy with the results. His immigration policies, once popular among his base, are now backfiring as graphic images of aggressive ICE raids have sparked public outrage. Support for a path to citizenship has jumped to 64%, while deportation support has dropped to 31%.
The poll shows 56% disapprove of ICE’s performance, and majorities oppose Trump’s deployment of the military for immigration enforcement. Compassion and empathy are rising, even amid global conflicts in Gaza, Russia, and Iran.
Meanwhile, “preserving democracy” has overtaken the economy as voters’ top concern. Trump’s approval rating sits at just 41%, with majority disapproval on immigration (57%), the economy (56%), and trade (55%). His budget proposal to extend tax breaks for the wealthy is also unpopular (55% oppose, 29% support).
Though Trump often touts favorable polls and dismisses critical ones, he previously praised Quinnipiac when it suited him—highlighting his inconsistency. While his current numbers are bad, they’ve been worse: in January 2021, his disapproval peaked at 60% after the Capitol riot.
Despite political division and policy dissatisfaction, most Americans (73%) still believe democracy will survive. That’s a rare piece of good news.