President Trump’s second term is nearing its 100th day, and while national polls show a significant portion of Americans disapproving of his handling of the economy, tariffs, and recent stock market volatility, his 2024 voter base remains largely supportive. A recent ABC News/Washington Post/Ipsos poll reveals a stark contrast: only 39% of all Americans approve of Trump’s economic performance, compared to a resounding 87% of his 2024 voters. This strong backing is evident even amidst concerns about rising prices and the impact of tariffs.
Jessianna Bartier, a 53-year-old Ohio resident, exemplifies this divided sentiment. While struggling financially, she expresses confidence in Trump’s ability to turn things around, contrasting his approach with what she perceived as economic mismanagement under the previous administration. She acknowledges mixed feelings about some of his policies, including her support for his border control measures alongside her disagreement with his stances on LGBTQ+ issues and abortion. Even with personal financial hardship, she believes Trump’s economic policies, including tariffs, will ultimately benefit the nation, although she admits to some short-term concerns and uncertainty about the recent stock market downturn.
Similar sentiments are echoed by other Trump voters. Anthony Romano, a 64-year-old retired purchasing agent from Philadelphia, expresses overall approval but expresses concern about the recent stock market fluctuations. His confidence stems from Trump’s business background, stating, “I have my trust in him; he knows what he’s doing.” Deborah Williams, a 71-year-old Nevada resident, also expresses a cautious optimism, acknowledging the impact of rising prices on her and her husband’s reduced income. While concerned about the potential inflationary effects of tariffs, she views Trump’s protectionist approach as a necessary step to strengthen America’s economic standing on the global stage.
Irene, a 63-year-old library and local government employee from northern New Jersey, highlights another layer of complexity. While generally supportive of tariffs as a way to counteract perceived unfair trade practices, she worries that their implementation might be too aggressive and far-reaching. She longs for the economic conditions experienced during Trump’s first term, citing lower interest rates and gas prices as key indicators of a healthier economy. Despite some reservations, she remains firmly committed to her vote for Trump.
The poll, conducted online from April 18-22, 2025, among 2,464 adults, reveals a significant partisan divide. While Trump’s supporters overwhelmingly approve of his economic policies, the broader American public remains less convinced. The ongoing debate about the long-term effects of Trump’s economic policies, including tariffs, and their impact on the short-term economic outlook, continues to shape the narrative of his second term. The significant difference in opinion between Trump’s voters and the general public highlights a deep polarization in the nation’s economic outlook.
