A recent poll indicates a record high disapproval rate for U.S. President Donald Trump, coinciding with protests and concerns over domestic and foreign policy.
Disapproval Reaches Record High
A survey conducted between April 24-28 among 2,560 American adults revealed that 62% expressed disapproval of Trump, the highest rate during his presidencies. His approval rating stands at 37%, the worst in his current term.
Two-thirds of those surveyed believe the country is heading in the wrong direction.
Widespread Dissatisfaction with Trump’s Policies
A majority of Americans are dissatisfied with Trump’s decisions regarding Iran. 76% of respondents negatively assessed his handling of the cost of living in the U.S., while 72% criticized his actions to counter inflation.
66% expressed disapproval of decisions related to the war with Iran, and 65% negatively evaluated his approach to relationships with U.S. allies.
Support Declines After Middle East Conflict
Trump’s support began to rapidly decline following the start of the war in the Middle East, which contributed to a sharp increase in gasoline prices.
A Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted between April 24 and 27 showed only 34% of respondents viewed Trump’s policies positively.
Over 3,500 Protests Across the U.S.
On May 1st, over 3,500 protests took place across the United States, organized by a coalition of unions including NEA, AFT, AFL-CIO, National Nurses United, and Starbucks Workers United.
Protest slogans included “Workers over billionaires” and “No ICE, no war, no private army.”
Protests Described as Grassroots and Left-Leaning
American political expert Magdalena Górnicka-Partyka described the protests as grassroots and ideologically left-leaning, associated with labor unions. She suggested Trump might attempt to exploit them to radicalize the opposition by claiming protesters are fueling a cycle of violence.