Nearly a year into his second term, President Donald Trump continues to emphasize progress and stability. However, new national polling suggests that many Americans feel uncertain about the direction of the country, especially when it comes to the economy and national unity.
A recent CNN/SSRS survey of 1,245 adults, conducted from October 27 to October 30, offers insight into the nation’s current mood. The findings reveal that economic worries, concerns about democracy, and frustration with political leadership remain top of mind for many.
Approval Ratings Reach a Low Point
According to the poll, President Trump’s approval rating has slipped to 37%, while 63% of respondents say they disapprove of his job performance.
Just months earlier, following his re-election, his approval stood at 47%, making the new results a significant decline. This drop brings his rating close to some of the lowest levels measured during his previous term.
Economy and Daily Costs Rank as Top Concerns
Economic pressure continues to be the biggest worry for households nationwide.
The survey found:
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47% of Americans say the economy or cost of living is their top concern.
Rising grocery prices, rent, and inflation are central issues for many families. -
26% say the state of U.S. democracy is their primary concern, reflecting growing unease over political division.
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Surprisingly, only 10% rank immigration as their number one issue.
Overall, 68% of respondents feel the country is heading in the wrong direction, while just 32% believe things are going fairly well.
Do Americans Think Trump’s Policies Are Working?
Opinions remain sharply divided on the president’s performance, but many feel conditions have gotten tougher:
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61% believe Trump’s policies have made the economy worse.
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Only 27% say his decisions have improved economic conditions.
In terms of foreign policy, 56% feel the president has weakened America’s position globally, while 32% believe he has strengthened it.
Concerns About Presidential Power
One of the most noteworthy findings is the perception of presidential overreach:
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61% of Americans say they believe Trump has used his executive powers “too much.”
This view appears connected to moves such as increased executive orders, National Guard mobilizations, and military actions taken without direct congressional approval.
Midterm Elections May Become a Test of Public Sentiment
With midterm elections approaching, many voters say their choices at the ballot box will be influenced by their views on the president:
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41% plan to vote specifically to oppose Trump’s agenda.
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21% say they will vote to support him.
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The remainder say their vote will not be directly affected by his presidency.
These numbers suggest that economic challenges and political tensions may play a decisive role in upcoming races, especially in closely contested states.
Trump Pushes Back Against Polls
President Trump has dismissed these poll results, calling them inaccurate and biased. On his platform, Truth Social, he claimed that “fake polls” misrepresent the public’s real views and cited what he described as strong performance in polls he considers “fair.”
Despite his criticism, researchers say the data reflects a growing disconnect between the president’s optimistic messaging and the concerns many Americans express about day-to-day life.
A Nation Facing Uncertainty
As the country approaches the one-year mark of Trump’s second term, the latest polls highlight a mix of economic pressure, political division, and concerns about national direction.
Whether public confidence can be rebuilt — or whether frustration will shape the political landscape in the months ahead — remains an open question.
For now, the numbers tell a clear story: many Americans are looking for stability, relief from rising costs, and a sense of unity during a challenging time.
