As 2025 begins, many voters are expressing dissatisfaction with the economy and President Donald Trump's management of it, despite a boost in national optimism following his re-election. According to a recent NBC News poll, the Republican Party stands firmly behind Trump and his ambitious agenda in Washington, leading to a rise in the number of voters who believe the country is on the right path, the highest since 2004. However, a majority still feel the nation is off course. Trump's approval rating has reached 47%, matching his previous best, yet 51% disapprove of his performance.
The poll reveals a significant decline in economic optimism, with only 18% of voters rating the economy as "excellent" or "good," a figure close to the lowest recorded during the Biden administration. A majority disapprove of Trump's handling of economic issues, including inflation and living costs. This marks a shift for Trump, who previously had not faced such widespread disapproval on economic matters in NBC News polls. His early actions, such as imposing tariffs on neighboring countries and allies, have unsettled markets and businesses, raising concerns among voters about his focus on their economic priorities.
The survey highlights a divided America, with Trump's overall job performance narrowly disapproved by voters, though the margin is tighter than during his first term. His personal ratings and support within the Republican Party have increased, reflecting strong party unity. Public opinion on his immigration policies has improved, but skepticism remains regarding his foreign policy and other issues.
Voters are split on the newly proposed Department of Government Efficiency, which aims to cut government jobs and spending. While the initiative has some support, there are concerns about its rapid implementation and the involvement of adviser Elon Musk. The poll also shows a divided electorate on which party should win the 2026 midterm elections, with Democrats facing low popularity and internal divisions.
The poll, conducted by Democratic pollster Jeff Horwitt and Republican pollster Bill McInturff, indicates that Trump's base has strengthened over the past year. The political landscape for the coming year will depend on whether economic dissatisfaction or Republican unity prevails.
Trump's approval ratings are at their highest in NBC News polling, but still lower than those of previous presidents during their early terms, highlighting ongoing polarization. The gap between Trump's approval among Republicans and Democrats is the largest in 80 years. Among independents, 30% approve of his performance, while 67% disapprove. A gender gap persists, with men more likely to approve of Trump than women.
Vice President JD Vance is viewed negatively by 47% of voters, a less favorable rating compared to previous vice presidents at the start of their terms. On immigration, Trump receives majority approval, but his handling of foreign policy and the Russia-Ukraine conflict is less well-received.
Economic issues remain a challenge, with only 1% of voters rating the economy as "excellent" and 17% as "good." A majority feel their income is not keeping pace with the cost of living. Voters are largely dissatisfied with Trump's efforts to combat inflation, with 46% "not at all satisfied."
The poll also examines voter opinions on Trump's impact as president, with mixed views on his approach to inflation, trade, and tariffs. The Department of Government Efficiency is seen as a good idea by 46% of voters, but concerns about its execution and Musk's role persist.
The Democratic Party faces its lowest favorability rating in NBC News polling history, with internal debates on whether to compromise with Trump. Voters remain divided on which party should control Congress after the midterms, with nearly equal support for Democrats and Republicans.
As Trump continues to dominate Washington, opinions on congressional and Supreme Court handling of Trump vary, with many believing Republicans are too supportive and Democrats too critical. The media's treatment of Trump is also a contentious issue, with 46% of voters finding it overly critical.
The poll surveyed 1,000 registered voters through a combination of phone and online methods, with a margin of error of 3.1 percentage points.