New nationwide polling reveals a sharp erosion in public trust in President Donald Trump, creating a significant political challenge as he continues to insist that his second term is unfolding smoothly. The most striking data comes from a CNN/SSRS survey conducted between October 27 and 30, which polled 1,245 adults across the United States. According to the results, Trump’s approval rating has plummeted to 37%, down ten points from 47% in February. This marks one of the lowest approval levels of his presidency and signals growing dissatisfaction across demographic groups. Meanwhile, 63% of surveyed Americans now express disapproval of the job he is doing, illustrating a widening gap between Trump’s narrative of success and the public’s lived experience. The contrast between Trump’s assertions and the poll numbers has intensified debate about his political footing as the country moves toward the next electoral cycle.

The public’s overall assessment of the nation’s direction is similarly grim. Roughly 68% of respondents believe the United States is doing “pretty badly” or “very badly,” reflecting a collective anxiety about the country’s present trajectory. Much of the dissatisfaction stems from economic pressures, with inflation and rising costs dominating household concerns. Nearly half of all participants—47%—identify inflation or the broader cost of living as the most serious problem facing the nation. These concerns touch nearly every socioeconomic group, amplifying frustrations in both urban and rural communities. Another 26% say threats to American democracy represent the country’s most pressing issue, highlighting ongoing fears about political instability, polarization, and institutional erosion. In contrast, only 10% cite immigration as the top national challenge, even though Trump continues to make it a central theme of his agenda, suggesting a growing disconnect between his messaging and voter priorities.

The poll also reveals a substantial belief that Trump’s actions are worsening key national conditions rather than improving them. A majority—61%—say his policies have harmed the economy, representing a significant shift from earlier periods of his presidency, when economic management was often viewed as one of his strengths. This perception likely reflects continued frustration over high consumer prices, housing costs, interest rates, and the broader sense that economic relief has not reached ordinary Americans. Additionally, 56% believe that Trump has weakened the United States on the global stage, indicating concerns about his foreign policy choices, diplomatic rhetoric, and shifting alliances. Growing fears about presidential overreach are also evident, with 61% of respondents saying Trump has overstepped in his use of presidential power. These combined views paint a picture of a public increasingly skeptical of Trump’s leadership style and wary of the long-term consequences of his governing approach.

The political implications of these attitudes extend directly into the midterm elections. According to the survey, only 21% of respondents say they plan to vote in support of Trump when casting their ballots, signaling a core base that, while loyal, appears to be shrinking relative to the broader electorate. In contrast, 41% say they intend to vote specifically to oppose him, an indicator of energized opposition. This dynamic is reminiscent of elections shaped by strong anti-incumbent sentiment, in which dissatisfaction with the president becomes a driving force in down-ballot races. The remaining respondents either do not connect their vote to Trump or remain undecided, a group that could decide close races depending on national conditions. The poll suggests that Trump’s political standing—while still formidable among his base—may be increasingly precarious as he faces an electorate more motivated by disapproval than support.

Despite the data, Trump has rejected the poll results outright, labeling them “Fake Polls” on Truth Social. He has argued that mainstream polling organizations cannot be trusted and that his support remains strong among “real Americans.” This strategy reflects a pattern he has used throughout his political career: discredit unfavorable polling, energize supporters by framing criticism as partisan or elitist, and attempt to shift the narrative toward his preferred topics, such as immigration, national security, and cultural conflict. Trump’s dismissal of these surveys may resonate with his core supporters, many of whom already distrust legacy media and polling institutions. However, the continued divergence between Trump’s public assurances and the country’s pessimistic mood raises questions about how effectively he can counter negative perceptions, especially if economic conditions do not markedly improve.

Going forward, the evolution of public opinion will likely hinge on several factors. First, the state of the economy remains the most influential variable. Should inflation ease and wages rise in real terms, Trump may regain credibility on economic leadership. If financial pressures persist, dissatisfaction is likely to deepen. Second, political developments—including congressional investigations, legislative battles, and foreign policy crises—could further shape public perception of stability and competence. Third, the momentum leading into the midterms will depend on how well Trump and his opponents frame the national debate. If Democrats continue to emphasize threats to democracy and presidential overreach while Republicans lean heavily on immigration and cultural issues, the electorate may realign its priorities once again. Ultimately, the poll captures a pivotal moment: a presidency facing growing mistrust, a public struggling with economic anxiety, and an approaching electoral season where these tensions will play out with significant consequences for both parties and the country as a whole.