Trump's Economic Approval Plummets Amid Fears of Recession and Rising Inflation
April 23, 2025
Despite the backlash, many Americans, including 48% of poll respondents, believe that other countries exploit the U.S. in trade, indicating some support for Trump's hardline stance.
A Quinnipiac University poll shows that 72% of voters believe Trump's recent tariffs will harm the economy in both the short and long term.
Trump's aggressive trade policies, including a 10% tariff on most imports, have contributed to significant market volatility and rising inflation, with the stock market down approximately 14% from its peak in February.
Concerns about inflation and the rising cost of living are central to voter discontent, with many expressing worries about their financial stability and the future of Social Security.
Trump's contentious actions, including deporting migrants under an 18th-century statute and imposing high tariffs on Chinese imports, have raised concerns about rising prices for consumers.
A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll indicates that only 37% of Americans approve of President Donald Trump's handling of the economy as he approaches his 100th day in office, a decline from 42% shortly after his inauguration.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has commented on the unsustainability of the ongoing tariffs with China, suggesting a potential de-escalation in the trade war.
Approval ratings for Trump's foreign policy and immigration efforts are similarly low, standing at 42% and 46%, respectively, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction among voters.
These approval ratings are largely influenced by concerns over Trump's economic policies, particularly amid fears of a recession following his controversial tariff announcements.
Experts warn that the economic outlook may worsen, with predictions of a recession this year due to the impacts of Trump's tariffs on U.S. exports.
Three months after his inauguration, a significant majority of respondents indicated that addressing inflation and the economy should be Trump's top priority, highlighting a shift in public concern.
Summary based on 17 sources
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Sources

Forbes • Apr 23, 2025
Trump Approval Rating Tracker: Economic Performance Gets Poor Marks
CNBC • Apr 23, 2025
Confidence in Trump's handling of the U.S. economy plummets, new polls show
The Independent • Apr 23, 2025
Trump live updates: Just 37% of Americans approve of president’s handling of the economy, new poll shows
Politico • Apr 23, 2025
Warning signs for Trump as pessimistic outlook on the economy grows among Americans