For months, former President Donald Trump has projected unwavering confidence in his push for a second term—presenting himself as a strong, steady hand ready to restore order and prosperity. His campaign rallies have been filled with energy, bold promises, and loyal supporters cheering for what he calls “America’s comeback.”
But behind the stage lights and slogans, a new set of nationwide surveys tells a more complicated story—one that shows a growing divide between Trump’s perception of his leadership and the public’s current mood about the nation’s future.
As prices rise, global tensions increase, and political divisions deepen across communities, many Americans appear to be reassessing what they want from their next leader—and whether Trump’s vision still matches their everyday realities.
Poll Numbers Show a Noticeable Shift
A recent CNN/SSRS national poll conducted among 1,245 U.S. adults found that Trump’s approval rating has dropped to 37%, down a full ten points from the beginning of the year. The decline places him near some of the lowest ratings recorded during his presidency.
Meanwhile, 63% of respondents said they disapprove of his performance or approach to leadership, marking a clear indication of public unease.
Even more striking is the national sentiment: nearly seven in ten Americans (68%) say the country is doing “fairly or very badly,” while only 32% believe things are headed in a positive direction.
These findings suggest that many people are struggling to feel optimistic about the economy, politics, and America’s standing in the world.
Rising Costs and Economic Pressure Lead the List of Concerns
When asked about the nation’s most urgent challenges, economic issues dominated the responses.
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Forty-seven percent of participants said inflation, rising costs, and other financial pressures remain their number one worry.
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Twenty-six percent highlighted threats to democracy and political stability.
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Only ten percent selected immigration—one of Trump’s most frequent talking points—as their top concern.
Despite his campaign’s emphasis on rebuilding economic strength, the survey suggests that many voters feel uncertain about the country’s financial direction. Sixty-one percent believe Trump’s past economic policies actually worsened conditions, while fifty-six percent think America’s influence abroad weakened during his administration.
Questions About Leadership and Presidential Power
Beyond economic issues, questions of leadership and presidential authority are also shaping opinions. A full 61% of Americans now say that Trump has gone “too far” in exercising presidential power—a sign that many voters may be seeking a more balanced and accountable form of governance.
As the 2025 election season approaches, these opinions could play a significant role in shaping how independent and undecided voters make their choices.
A Divided Nation Prepares for Another Election
With the political spotlight once again focused on Donald Trump, Americans remain deeply divided. The poll found that:
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Forty-one percent of voters say their next vote will be against Trump’s leadership and policies.
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Twenty-one percent say their vote will support him.
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The remainder are still undecided—a group that could ultimately determine the election’s outcome.
Trump, however, has rejected the poll results, calling them biased and out of touch with what he describes as “real voter energy.” His campaign continues to highlight record crowds at rallies, strong fundraising numbers, and what it claims is growing support among working-class Americans.
A Nation at a Crossroads
Political analysts say the latest numbers may not predict the final outcome, but they do highlight an important reality: Americans are paying attention, asking harder questions, and demanding more transparency from their leaders.
As families face rising living costs, ongoing international conflicts, and widening divisions at home, public attitudes toward leadership and accountability are evolving.
The real question now is whether these poll results represent a temporary dip in enthusiasm or a lasting shift in the national mood.
For millions of voters, the coming months will be about more than politics—they’ll be about trust, stability, and belief in the American future.
Looking Ahead
As 2025 unfolds, the United States stands at a defining moment. Poll numbers will continue to fluctuate, but one thing remains clear: the nation’s appetite for strong, credible leadership has never been greater.
Whether Donald Trump can reconnect with skeptical voters—or whether a new wave of leaders will reshape the political landscape—remains to be seen.
What is certain is that America’s political pulse is beating louder than ever, and the world is watching to see where it leads next.
