Donald Trump began his second term with an approval rating of 47%, continuing a trend of historically low ratings compared to past presidents. This figure, while not significantly lower than those of Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush at the start of their tenures, highlights a distinct departure from the traditional "honeymoon period" most presidents experience shortly after taking office. In contrast, leaders like John F. Kennedy and Dwight Eisenhower enjoyed initial approval ratings of 72% and 68% respectively, underscoring a significant difference in public perception.
“Most presidents have experienced a ‘honeymoon period’, with strong job approval ratings in the initial months of their presidencies that then fade as time passes,” – Brenan
Trump's unique standing as the only modern president never to reach a 50% approval rating further distinguishes his presidency. His current ratings, with a disapproval mark three percentage points higher than in 2017, reflect ongoing partisan divisions. These figures also contrast sharply with Joe Biden's initial approval rating of 57%, which stood nine points higher than Trump's current standing.
“Trump remains the only elected president with sub-50% initial approval ratings, and his latest disapproval rating (48%) is three percentage points higher than in 2017.” – Megan Brenan
The former president's approval ratings are further complicated by his controversial cabinet selections, including figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., known for his vaccine conspiracy theories, and Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democratic congresswoman. These choices have stirred debate and may have contributed to Trump's divisive perception among the American public.
Despite these challenges, Trump's policies, particularly his efforts to reduce the size of the federal government, continue to enjoy majority support. However, his presidency has been marked by unique controversies, including twice being impeached and being the only convicted felon ever elected president. Furthermore, Trump continues to propagate false claims about electoral fraud regarding his loss to Biden in 2020.
“At 47%, President Donald Trump’s initial job approval rating for his second term is similar to the inaugural 45% reading during his first term, again placing him below all other elected presidents dating back to 1953,” – Megan Brenan
Historically, few presidents have begun their terms with such polarized public opinion. Jimmy Carter, for instance, enjoyed a 66% approval rating at the start of his presidency in February 1977. Similarly, Barack Obama matched Eisenhower's high initial rating with 68%. These figures starkly contrast with Trump's situation, where public opinion is sharply divided along partisan lines.
“initial evaluations of Trump differ in that Americans are much more likely to disapprove of his performance rather than have no opinion, as was the case for the elder Bush and Reagan” – Brenan
Trump's political journey has been marked by significant electoral victories and losses. He arrived in office having defeated Hillary Clinton in the electoral college but lost the popular vote. In his subsequent campaign against Kamala Harris, he secured a convincing margin in both the electoral college and popular vote.
Adding to the complexities of his presidency are the numerous pardons and commutations Trump granted. He freed over 1,500 individuals convicted in relation to a riot linked to nine deaths, including some law enforcement suicides—a decision that has sparked considerable debate.