Trump’s Approval Rating: A Mixed Bag in His Second Term

President Trump’s job approval rating has been a subject of interest. His second quarter in office saw a historically low 38.8% approval rating, according to Gallup. Despite this, recent polls show a slight improvement, with 52% of voters approving of his transition and 48.1% finding him favorable.

President Donald Trump’s approval ratings have been a topic of discussion since his inauguration. The latest data from Gallup indicates that his second quarter in office, from April 20 to July 19, 2024, saw a historically low average job approval rating of 38.8%. This is a significant drop from his first quarter, where he had a 41.3% approval rating, and his inaugural 45% number.
Historically, Trump’s approval ratings have been among the lowest for any president. For instance, Bill Clinton’s lowest second-quarter approval rating was 44%, and every other president since John F. Kennedy had higher ratings at this point in their presidency, often in the 60s. Barack Obama, for example, had a 62% approval rating at a similar stage in his presidency.
Despite these low numbers, recent polls suggest a slight improvement. A survey conducted by Morning Consult found that 52% of voters approve of Trump’s transition to the presidency, with 44% disapproving. Additionally, RealClearPolling reports that Trump’s favorability rating has moved into positive territory, with 48.1% of voters finding him favorable and 47.9% unfavorable.
The mixed bag of approval ratings reflects broader political polarization and historical trends. Trump’s predecessors typically saw their approval ratings drop by an average of 9 points from the six-month mark to 18 months, according to Gallup data. The nature of objections to Trump also differs; most disapproving voters cite his character and personality rather than his policies, making it harder for him to win over skeptics.

What is President Trump’s current job approval rating?
Trump’s current job approval rating is around 38.8% for the second quarter of his second term, according to Gallup.
How does this compare to his previous quarters?
His second quarter approval rating is lower than his first quarter (41.3%) and inaugural (45%) numbers.
What are the historical trends in presidential approval ratings?
Historically, most presidents have higher approval ratings at this point in their presidency, often in the 60s. Bill Clinton’s lowest second-quarter approval was 44%.
Why are Trump’s approval ratings low?
Many disapprove of Trump due to his character and personality, not his policies, which makes it harder for him to win over skeptics.
How do recent polls reflect on Trump’s transition?
Recent polls show a positive view of Trump’s transition, with 52% of voters approving and 44% disapproving.

President Trump’s approval ratings continue to be a subject of interest. While his second quarter in office saw historically low numbers, recent polls indicate a slight improvement. The mixed bag of approval ratings reflects broader political polarization and historical trends, highlighting the challenges Trump faces in winning over skeptics.