Whispers in Washington Said His Time Was Up—Then Donald Trump Surged to His Highest Approval Yet
For months, critics pointed to Donald Trump’s age, health concerns, and a fractured nation as signs that his political star was fading. Many dismissed him as a figure past his prime, struggling to stay relevant.
Yet a surprising new poll has thrown that narrative into question—leaving skeptics scrambling for answers. How did a man so widely written off suddenly climb to his strongest approval rating yet?
According to a fresh Daily Mail/J.L. Partners survey, Trump’s approval has surged to 55 percent—a six-point jump since July. This rise is largely credited to his uncompromising stance on crime and a steady economic performance that has restored confidence among voters.
A pivotal moment came with his August 11 executive order authorizing federal troops to deploy in Washington, D.C. The results were striking: violent crime dropped by 39 percent, robberies plunged 57 percent, and vehicle thefts fell 35 percent compared to the previous year. While critics condemned the move as heavy-handed, the public largely embraced it, strengthening Trump’s image as a leader committed to law and order.
The economy has also played a key role in boosting Trump’s standing. U.S. GDP growth reached 3.3 percent in the second quarter, inflation remained stable, and consumer spending along with personal incomes rose steadily. Wall Street mirrored this optimism, with the S&P 500 hitting five new record highs in August alone.
Breaking with political norms, Trump bypassed the traditional summer recess to remain at the White House, focusing on pressing domestic and international issues. His diplomatic agenda included a high-profile August 15 meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, followed by hosting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky alongside several European leaders, signaling a push toward renewed peace negotiations.
Meanwhile, health rumors proved largely unfounded. Physicians downplayed concerns about mild leg swelling, and attributed a bruised hand to vigorous handshakes combined with aspirin use. At 79, Trump continues to defy expectations, both medically and politically.
Conclusion
Rather than fading away, Donald Trump is entering the fall with unexpected momentum. Crime rates are falling, the economy is stable, and international diplomacy is on his agenda. Polls suggest the public is taking notice—and for now, the conversation is shifting from doubts about his decline to recognition of his lasting influence on the political stage.