Trump’s Second Term Begins with Historically Low Approval RatingsWashington

Trump’s Second Term Begins with Historically Low Approval Ratings
Washington, D.C., July 11, 2025 — President Donald Trump entered his second term in office with approval ratings that rank among the lowest in modern U.S. history, according to multiple national polls and historical comparisons.
A Gallup survey conducted in late June found Trump’s approval rating at 40%, placing him below every other post-World War II president at the same point in their administrations. This figure trails far behind the early-term ratings of Barack Obama (61%), George W. Bush (54%), and Ronald Reagan (59%).
The decline in public support has been attributed to a series of controversial decisions, including the June airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and the deployment of federal troops to quell protests in Los Angeles. A Reuters/Ipsos poll taken shortly after the strikes showed Trump’s approval dipping to 41%, with 57% disapproving of his performance.
Independent voters, a key swing demographic, have shown increasing dissatisfaction. According to Decision Desk HQ, Trump’s net approval among independents fell below –30 points, marking the lowest level of his second term.
Despite the national downturn, Trump retains strong support within his Republican base. CNN’s data analyst Harry Enten noted that 63% of GOP voters strongly approve of Trump’s performance—higher than any Republican president in the past four decades.
Political analysts warn that the president’s low approval ratings could have ripple effects on the 2026 midterm elections. “A president’s popularity can be a drag or a lift for down-ballot candidates,” said veteran GOP strategist Christopher Nicholas. “Even a few points can shift the outcome in competitive races.”
While some polls show slight rebounds in early July, the overall trend remains volatile. Trump’s approval rating continues to fluctuate between 41% and 47%, depending on the pollster and methodology.
As Trump navigates the challenges of his second term, including economic uncertainty and foreign policy tensions, his approval ratings will likely remain a key barometer of public sentiment and political momentum.