Even before the poll numbers were released, insiders hinted that something unusual was unfolding behind the scenes in the White House.
Staffers reported sudden changes in internal strategy meetings, last-minute adjustments to public appearances, and unexpected shifts in messaging that suggested mounting concern.
A few aides even noticed confidential briefing folders being moved with unusual discretion. No one could say for sure what prompted the heightened caution — but in hindsight, those early signs seem far less coincidental.
Ten months into his second term, President Donald Trump continues to insist that the nation is thriving. From the Oval Office,
he projects confidence, touting economic achievements, low unemployment, and his vision for America’s global influence. Yet newly released national surveys suggest that many Americans see a far harsher reality, one that diverges sharply from the president’s message.
A fresh CNN/SSRS poll, conducted from October 27 to 30 with 1,245 adults, offers a revealing glimpse into a country unsettled by economic pressures, political tension, and growing dissatisfaction with the president’s leadership style.
Approval Ratings Hit a Serious Low Point
Trump’s approval rating has fallen to 37%, one of the lowest figures he has registered since returning to office. Meanwhile, 63% of respondents disapprove of his performance. For context, in mid-February, Trump was polling at 47% — a spike following his re-election. The sharp decline reflects a significant erosion in voter confidence, mirroring the lowest points of his previous terms, such as the public backlash following the January 6, 2021 Capitol attack.
Economic Stress and Daily Costs Dominate Concerns
The survey reveals that 47% of participants identify the economy and rising living costs as their top concern. Families across the country continue to feel the pinch of inflation, expensive groceries, rising rents, and energy bills.
Concerns about the state of American democracy came next, with 26% highlighting political stability as a primary issue. This suggests that many citizens are worried about governmental dysfunction, transparency, and the long-term health of democratic institutions.
Despite Trump’s frequent emphasis on immigration in public statements, only 10% of respondents listed it as their primary worry — a clear indication that voters are focused more on tangible day-to-day challenges than political talking points.
When asked about the nation’s overall trajectory, 68% said things were going “pretty badly” or “very badly,” while just 32% felt the country was heading “fairly well.”
Many Believe Trump’s Policies Have Made Conditions Worse
Public opinion is sharply negative regarding the administration’s impact on the economy and foreign policy:
61% say his policies have damaged the economy, while only 27% believe they have improved it.
56% say Trump has weakened America’s global influence, compared with 32% who think he has strengthened it.
These figures suggest that while partisan divides remain, economic and geopolitical concerns cut across demographics, reflecting widespread unease.
Concerns Over Presidential Overreach
Another striking finding is that 61% of Americans feel Trump has overstepped his presidential powers. This sentiment is linked to controversial actions such as broad executive orders, deployment of the National Guard, and military interventions without explicit congressional authorization. The poll indicates that many voters are uneasy with what they perceive as unilateral governance, a factor that could influence upcoming midterm elections.
Midterms as a National Referendum on Trump
Looking ahead, Trump remains a central figure on ballots across the country.
41% of voters say they will oppose his agenda.
21% say they will vote in support of him.
The remainder indicate that Trump’s presidency will not directly affect their choice. Yet, growing frustration over rising costs and political tension suggests that his influence could be decisive in competitive states and close races.
Trump Dismisses the Poll Results
As expected, Trump dismissed the findings as biased and unreliable. Posting on Truth Social, he wrote:
“So many Fake Polls are being shown by the Radical Left Media. In the Fair Polls, my numbers are the best they’ve ever been… I created the greatest economy, kept taxes low, and I’m leading this country into the future. Fake News can’t change that — and I’m still here.”
While the president maintains confidence, pollsters argue the data shows a widening gap between his perception of performance and how the majority of Americans experience daily life.
A Nation at an Inflection Point
Nearly a year into Trump’s second term, the polling paints a stark portrait: financial stress, shaken trust in leadership, and mounting concern over the country’s direction. Whether Trump can repair his standing — or whether voter frustration will erupt in next year’s elections — remains an unanswered question.
For now, one fact is clear: many Americans believe the nation’s problems stretch far beyond politics alone. Rising costs, social divisions, and questions about governance are creating a sense of instability that the administration must contend with.
Conclusion
Taken together, these findings offer a sobering verdict on the nation’s mood. Americans are grappling with economic pressures, disillusionment toward leadership, and political polarization. Trump’s challenge is stark: connect his message of success to the public’s lived experience, rebuild trust, and demonstrate tangible progress on daily concerns. As the country approaches another pivotal election year, the divide between presidential optimism and public frustration may well become one of the defining issues of his second term.