In brief
Approval ratings for President Trump have sharply dropped, with only 33% of U.S. adults approving of his governance, a significant decrease from March's 43%. The decline is particularly notable among Republicans and independents, as the ongoing government shutdown leads to frustrations over federal management. Trump's overall approval remains steady at 36%, but dissatisfaction is growing over key issues like health care and the economy as public opinion shifts amidst the political crisis.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Approval of President Donald Trump's management of the government has seen a dramatic decline, according to a new AP-NORC poll, which highlights growing discontent predominantly from fellow Republicans. Conducted after recent Democratic victories in off-year elections and prior to Congress's efforts to address the ongoing government shutdown, the survey indicates that only 33% of U.S. adults approve of Trump's governance, down from 43% recorded in an AP-NORC poll in March.The drop in approval is largely due to Republican and independent voters reconsidering their support. Only 68% of Republicans now express approval of Trump's management, a significant decline from 81% earlier this year, and independents' approval has dipped from 38% to just 25%.The timing of the poll adds context as the government shutdown wreaks havoc on federal services and employees, with Trump attempting to blame Democrats for the impasse. However, voters are equally critical of both parties, as disruptions have impacted air travel, unpaid federal workers, and essential food assistance programs.Republicans, traditionally seen as steadfast in their support for Trump, are voicing concerns, with many comparing the president's actions to the behavior of a ‘petulant child.’ Beverly Lucas, a Republican from Florida, highlighted her dissatisfaction with the shutdown and described Trump's recent social events as tone-deaf in the face of national hardship. Despite the significant drop in approval regarding federal management, Trump's overall approval rating remains constant at approximately 36%, with no major shifts observed in public opinion on critical issues like immigration or the economy.The shutdown has also put health care at the forefront of political discussion as negotiations continue, yet Trump's approval related to health care has only slightly improved. Meanwhile, some supporters firmly back Trump, attributing the shutdown solely to Democrats' actions.Amid the growing criticism, a balanced perspective acknowledges that there is blame to share, as public sentiment emphasizes a need for resolution by both political factions. The ongoing discontent could further influence perceptions of Trump's presidency as the stalemate persists.
