Donald Trump's approval ratings take a nosedive as tariff whiplash proves bridge too far

According to a recent poll, 51% of Americans now disapprove of Trump’s job performance.

PUBLISHED APR 12, 2025

This marks a 14-point drop since he took office in January, though his current numbers align with his first-term averages.

Washington D.C.: President Donald Trump’s approval rating has reached a new low in his second term as Americans express growing frustration over his economic policies, particularly his aggressive tariff measures.

According to a recent Economist/YouGov poll, 51% of Americans now disapprove of Trump’s job performance, while only 43% approve — a net approval rating of -8, down five points from the previous week. This marks a 14-point drop since he took office in January, though his current numbers align with his first-term averages.

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The decline in support appears linked to economic concerns, with 51% disapproving of Trump’s handling of the economy and 55% criticizing his approach to inflation. During his campaign, Trump promised lower prices, but egg costs recently hit record highs, prompting a Department of Justice investigation into potential price-fixing by producers.

Tariffs have also fueled public discontent. Trump initially imposed a 10% global tariff and even higher reciprocal tariffs on China, sparking fears of rising consumer prices. While he later paused some tariffs for 90 days (excluding China, which faces a 145% levy), the policy has drawn sharp criticism—80% of Americans worry tariffs will drive up costs, and nearly half expect significant price hikes.

Trump’s approval among Republican voters dropping from 91% to 85% in two weeks. Meanwhile, former President Joe Biden maintained a +9 approval rating at this stage in his presidency.