President Trump’s Confidence, Public Doubt: A Growing Disconnect

Ten months into his second term, President Trump projects confidence — pointing to economic strength and asserting foreign-policy victories. But a recent national poll from CNN / SSRS paints a markedly different picture. According to that survey, his approval rating has fallen to 37 %, down from 47 % earlier this year. The Guardian

The poll of 1,245 adults underscores how economic issues — especially the rising cost of living — now dominate public concern. Nearly half (47 %) of respondents named cost-of-living pressures as their top priority, far ahead of issues like immigration or national security. The Guardian

While unemployment remains low, many Americans say rising prices for essentials like housing, food, and healthcare have squeezed household budgets. That economic pain appears to translate into waning confidence: 61 % of respondents told pollsters they believe Trump’s policies have worsened conditions, while just 27 % said they’ve helped. The Guardian

On foreign policy, the picture is also bleak. The poll found that 56 % believe Trump has damaged the United States’ global standing through aggressive trade policies, abrupt military decisions, and tensions with long-standing allies. Only 32 % said his policies had improved America’s international position. The Guardian

Concerns over executive overreach are also mounting. A majority — 61 % — feel the president has exceeded his authority through expansive executive orders, use of the National Guard, and unilateral military actions. The Guardian+1

With midterm elections on the horizon, the poll suggests a potentially volatile electorate. While many of Trump’s core supporters remain loyal, 41 % of voters say their congressional vote would be cast explicitly to oppose him — a sign of growing mobilization among his critics. The Guardian

Even as Trump dismisses these poll results as “fake,” insisting his record speaks for itself, the data reflect a divided nation grappling with deep economic unease, foreign-policy disillusionment, and growing unease about presidential power. As the country moves toward 2026 and beyond, the question becomes whether Trump can bridge this widening gap — or whether the discontent will reshape the political map.