Public Sentiment Turns Against Trump’s Leadership
A new PRRI survey reveals that nearly two-thirds of Americans believe the country is heading in the wrong direction under President Donald Trump. The American Values study, released October 22, shows 62% disapprove of the nation’s trajectory. A similar number—65%—criticize the administration’s handling of the economy. On immigration, 57% say the government is on the wrong track.
Trump’s overall job performance fares no better, with 56% of respondents expressing disapproval. His favorability stands at 40%, while 58% hold unfavorable views.
Sharp Divides Over Constitutional Norms
The study finds that 54% of Americans view Trump’s actions as an assault on constitutional checks and balances. In contrast, 43% believe his policies are necessary corrections to elite-driven failures. These differences reflect widening partisan gaps, particularly between independents and Republicans. PRRI President Robert P. Jones notes that independents now align more closely with Democrats on many issues.
The gap between party lines is stark. While 92% of Democrats and 71% of independents say the country is on the wrong path, only 24% of Republicans agree.
Partisan Views on Social Programs and Federal Changes
Six in 10 Americans believe Trump has gone too far in cutting health-related programs like the ACA, Medicaid, and Medicare. Democrats (90%) and independents (67%) largely oppose the cuts, while just 25% of Republicans share that concern.
When asked about changes to the federal government, 87% of Democrats and 62% of independents see them as negative. However, 82% of Republicans say the changes are necessary and positive.
Religion Shapes Approval and Identity
Religious affiliation strongly correlates with Trump’s approval. White evangelicals (76%) and white Catholics (57%) largely support him. In contrast, Black Protestants (77%), non-Christians (76%), and the religiously unaffiliated (77%) disapprove.
A notable shift shows Democrats are now more likely than Republicans to feel like “strangers” in their own country—a reversal from previous years.
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Most Americans now see Trump as a dangerous dictator
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