Recent polls show a sharp decline in approval for both former President Trump and billionaire Elon Musk, as Americans express growing dissatisfaction with their policies and leadership.
A CNN/SSRS poll reveals that 56% of Americans disapprove of Trump’s handling of the economy, a significant drop from his first term. The economy is now the top concern for 42% of voters. Meanwhile, a Reuters/Ipsos survey shows that 70% of Americans believe Trump’s tariffs will drive up the cost of living, with more than half saying his trade policies are too unpredictable.
An Economist/YouGov poll also reports that Trump’s approval rating among Hispanic Americans has hit a new low of 34%, with 56% disapproving. Only 28% of those surveyed believe the country is heading in the right direction.
Economists have long warned that Trump’s tariffs on countries like China, Mexico, and Canada are increasing costs for U.S. consumers, as companies raise prices to cover the higher costs of imported goods. Most Americans, according to the Reuters/Ipsos poll, want Trump to focus more on lowering rising prices rather than continuing with his trade policies.
Concerns over a possible recession are growing, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping nearly 900 points in one day. J.P. Morgan has raised its forecast for a recession this year to 40%, up from 30% earlier in 2025. Despite these warnings, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick insists that Trump’s economic policies will be worth the risk of a recession.
Trump’s overall job approval rating is also slipping. A CNN/Ipsos poll shows 54% of Americans disapprove of his performance, with only 35% believing the country is moving in the right direction. Fewer than half of Americans approve of Trump’s healthcare policies, foreign affairs, or tariffs.
However, on immigration, Trump’s policies still have some support, with 51% approval, which marks a slight increase from his first term.
Elon Musk, who is leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), is also facing criticism. A CNN/Ipsos poll shows only 35% of Americans view him positively, while 53% have a negative opinion. About 60% of Americans say Musk lacks the experience and judgment needed for the job, especially as DOGE enacts large layoffs and budget cuts.
Musk’s cuts have raised concerns, with 62% of Americans fearing that critical government programs could be harmed. In the past week alone, significant cuts have been announced, including NASA layoffs that could affect hundreds of employees and the Department of Education’s plan to reduce its staff by nearly half. Musk’s DOGE also directed the Department of Housing and Urban Development to cancel a $1 billion affordable housing program.
As Americans grow increasingly unhappy with both Trump’s economic decisions and Musk’s leadership, the approval ratings of both men continue to fall, signaling deepening public discontent with their actions.
