As President Donald Trump approaches the 100-day milestone of his second term, a new Pew Research Center poll reveals a significant decline in public confidence regarding his handling of the U.S. economy — long considered one of his strongest political assets.
According to the survey, most Americans now express little or no confidence in Trump’s economic leadership. Nearly 6 in 10 disapprove of his aggressive tariff policies, and economic forecasts have grown more pessimistic.
Poll Shows Declining Confidence in Trump’s Economic Strategy
In a striking reversal from earlier trends, only 45% of Americans say they are confident in Trump’s ability to manage the economy — down from 59% last November. Meanwhile, 54% say they have little or no confidence, marking a major swing from a +19-point net approval to a -9-point net disapproval.
This shift comes amid rising inflation fears, market volatility, and concerns about a possible recession triggered by escalating tariffs, particularly targeting China.
Tariffs, Trade Tensions, and a Slowing Economy
Trump recently imposed sweeping tariffs on most trading partners but paused them for 90 days, signaling a partial retreat from a trade policy that has rattled global markets. However, tariffs on Chinese goods remain in place and even increased.
Tariffs Breakdown:
- Tariffs paused for most nations
- Tariffs ramped up on Chinese imports
- Industries brace for the impact on consumer prices and global supply chains
Despite these measures, Americans are increasingly skeptical. 59% disapprove of the tariffs, indicating growing dissatisfaction with the administration’s approach to international trade.
Approval Ratings Reflect Shift Among Swing Voters
While Trump’s core base remains largely intact with a 96% approval rating among his strongest supporters, his overall job approval has fallen to 40% — a 7-point drop since February. Among less fervent Trump voters, support declined from 88% to 75%.
These figures highlight trouble with swing voters, a demographic crucial to Trump’s electoral victories.
Key Findings from the Pew Survey
- 67% of Americans lack confidence in Trump’s ability to unite the country
- Only 48% express some confidence in his immigration policies
- Majorities expressed doubts in Trump’s leadership on 10 major issues, including the economy, foreign policy, and health care
- 30% of respondents said there’s “nothing” they like about the administration’s performance
Judicial Independence and Partisan Divides
The poll also revealed bipartisan agreement on one issue: respect for the judiciary.
- 91% of Democrats and 65% of Republicans said Trump must comply with federal court rulings
- Support rises to 95% and 82%, respectively, when the ruling comes from the Supreme Court
- However, 30% of Republicans still said Trump could ignore federal court decisions
Stock Market Reflects Economic Uncertainty
Investor anxiety over the future of U.S. trade policy has led to fluctuations in the stock market, further compounding concerns. Analysts say this turbulence may have prompted Trump’s recent efforts to dial down economic tensions, including negotiations with China and reassurances to the Federal Reserve.
Trump’s Economic Standing Faces Critical Test
Historically, the 100-day mark serves as a symbolic measure of a president’s early performance. For Trump, it underscores growing skepticism — and a potential weakening of one of his strongest voter appeals.
Although Republicans now hold a 43% favorability rating, compared to 38% for Democrats, this shift has not translated into improved perceptions of Trump’s economic policies.
What Lies Ahead for the Trump Administration?
As economic pressures mount and approval ratings slip, President Trump faces an uphill battle to rebuild trust on the economy, a key issue for many Americans. Whether his policy adjustments and diplomatic shifts can win back voters remains to be seen.