Donald Trump has officially set a record, but not the kind he’d want to brag about. The newly inaugurated president has started his term with the lowest net approval rating ever recorded for a new U.S. leader.
According to recent polls, Trump’s approval numbers are in freefall, signaling deep divisions among Americans just days into his presidency. While past presidents have traditionally enjoyed a honeymoon period of widespread support, Trump is facing a drastically different reality.
A Presidency Off to a Rocky Start
Polls from multiple sources confirm the unprecedented nature of Trump’s approval ratings. His net approval—calculated as the percentage of people who approve of his performance minus those who disapprove—has hit record lows compared to previous presidents at the start of their terms. In contrast, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and even Bill Clinton all entered office with far more favorable numbers.
So what’s behind this staggering lack of public confidence? Political analysts point to a combination of factors, including Trump’s highly controversial campaign, his inflammatory rhetoric, and the numerous protests that erupted across the country immediately after his inauguration.
Controversies and Chaos
From the moment Trump stepped into the Oval Office, his administration has been plagued by controversy. His disputes with the media, the implementation of contentious executive orders, and his confrontational approach to governance have all contributed to his historically low approval rating.
One of the most polarizing moves was the immediate crackdown on immigration policies, sparking outrage among activists and legal experts. Additionally, Trump’s frequent use of Twitter to attack opponents has only deepened the divide between his supporters and critics.
How the Public is Reacting
Rather than rallying behind their new leader, a significant portion of Americans remain skeptical—or outright opposed—to Trump’s presidency. Protests, including the historic Women’s March, have drawn millions to the streets, demonstrating the level of resistance he faces. Meanwhile, his approval ratings continue to tumble as more controversies unfold.
Even some Republican lawmakers have expressed concerns about his approach, fearing that continued turmoil could jeopardize their party’s standing in future elections.
Will Trump’s Ratings Recover?
Historically, approval ratings fluctuate as presidents settle into their roles. While some leaders have rebounded from early setbacks, others have struggled to regain public trust. For Trump, the road ahead will depend on his ability to unite a deeply divided country, temper his most controversial tendencies, and deliver on his campaign promises without alienating large swaths of the electorate.
As his presidency unfolds, all eyes will remain on Trump’s approval numbers—watching to see if he can defy expectations once again, or if this historic low is just the beginning of a tumultuous tenure.
