If you go by former President Donald Trump’s own words, his second term is unfolding with strength, momentum, and steady leadership. But newly released national polling suggests that many Americans see things very differently.
A fresh CNN/SSRS poll conducted from October 27–30 among 1,245 adults shows Trump’s approval rating falling to 37%. Earlier this year, in mid-February, that number sat at 47%. This drop puts him close to one of the lowest points of his presidency — nearly matching the historically low approval he received in the aftermath of the January 6 Capitol riot in 2021. Today, 63% of respondents say they disapprove of his performance.
Americans Say the Country Is on the Wrong Track
When participants were asked about the overall state of the U.S., the mood remained overwhelmingly negative:
68% said things in the country are going “pretty badly” or “very badly.”
Only 32% believe the nation is doing “fairly well” or “very well.”
A major source of this dissatisfaction is economic pressure. Nearly half — 47% — identified inflation, everyday expenses, and the state of the economy as the most critical problem facing the nation.
Concerns about the health of American democracy came next, with 26% naming it their top issue. Meanwhile, immigration — one of Trump’s most prominent talking points — was cited as the primary concern by just 10% of respondents.
Many Believe Trump’s Policies Are Making Things Worse
When asked whether Trump’s decisions have helped or harmed the country:
61% said his policies have worsened economic conditions.
Only 27% felt his policies had improved the economy.
On foreign policy and America’s global image:
56% believe Trump has hurt the country’s standing abroad.
32% feel he has strengthened it.
There are also serious concerns about presidential authority.
61% of those surveyed think Trump has used his power excessively, pointing to aggressive use of executive orders, deployments of the National Guard, and unilateral military decisions.
Midterms Could Be a Referendum on Trump
This poll arrives at a tense moment in Washington. The federal government is in the midst of a shutdown that threatens to become the longest in U.S. history. Families continue grappling with inflated prices, uncertainty about the economy, and wider fears about the stability of American democratic systems.
These pressures are shaping how voters view the upcoming midterm elections:
41% say their vote for Congress will be a deliberate message against Trump.
Only 21% say their vote will be a way to support him.
Trump Responds: “Fake Polls”
Trump dismissed the poll on Truth Social, arguing the numbers don’t reflect reality. He blamed the media and polling organizations for bias:
“So many Fake Polls are being shown by the Radical Left Media… In the Fair Polls… I have the Best Numbers I have ever had… I ended eight Wars, created the Greatest Economy… kept Prices, Inflation, and Taxes down… Fake News will never change… but as I look around my beautiful surroundings, I say to myself, ‘Oh, look, I’m sitting in the Oval Office!’”
What Comes Next?
Whether these approval numbers are temporary or part of a longer trend remains unclear. Trump’s ratings have swung up and down throughout his presidency, often reacting to major political events, economic developments, or legal battles.
The upcoming midterm elections may offer the clearest insight yet into how Americans truly feel about the nation’s direction — and about the role Trump continues to play in shaping it.