Recent developments in Washington indicate a significant transformation following Donald Trump’s remarkable return to the Oval Office earlier this month. His second, non-consecutive presidential term—a rare occurrence in American political history—was inaugurated in a ceremony held indoors at the Capitol rotunda due to frigid temperatures.
At the age of 78, Trump took the oath of office once again, this time alongside Vice President JD Vance, marking the commencement of a term that many anticipate will redefine his legacy and influence the future direction of the Republican Party. New approval ratings from Morning Consult suggest a robust beginning for Trump.
A poll conducted between January 24 and January 26 reveals that 52% of registered voters approve of Trump’s performance, reflecting an eight-point increase compared to the conclusion of his first term in 2021. Conversely, 44% of respondents disapprove of his presidency, with 78% of Democrats and 51% of independents expressing dissatisfaction. In a similar timeframe during his first term, 49% of voters approved of his performance, while 41% disapproved.
Notably, Trump’s ratings on issue-specific policies stand out:
- National Security: 55% approve, 34% disapprove (+21)
- Immigration: 56% approve, 36% disapprove (+20)
- The Economy: 53% approve, 36% disapprove (+17)
- Foreign Policy: 52% approve, 36% disapprove (+16)
- Energy Policy: 51% approve, 36% disapprove (+15)
Trump’s approval ratings represent his most favorable standing in public opinion since March 2017, during the early days of his first term. Notably, the most significant data pertains to his management of the economy, where he holds a 17-point lead.
As inflation, wages, and the cost of living take center stage in the 2024 campaign, the Morning Consult survey indicates a public that is keenly seeking economic relief. Almost 80% of voters believe that reducing the cost of goods and services should be the administration’s primary focus. This emphasis on economic issues aligns with Trump’s initial executive actions, which aimed to boost domestic energy production, ease regulations on small businesses, and enhance tax credits for middle-income families.
Trump’s approval ratings regarding immigration (+20) and national security (+21) demonstrate his ongoing success in prioritizing these matters during his presidency. With a Congress controlled by Republicans, Trump is in a strong position to advance his agenda.
Cost reduction remains a significant concern for voters, with nearly 80% indicating that the Trump administration should prioritize lowering prices for goods and services. In contrast, only 23% and 16% view imposing tariffs on imports and expanding U.S. territory as top priorities, respectively.
Moreover, a slight majority considers addressing illegal immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border to be essential, although support for mass deportations (42%) and changes to the legal immigration system (39%) is limited. Trump’s approval ratings on immigration and trade surpass his overall ratings by 20 and 13 percentage points, respectively.
While there is general support for measures to secure the border, the data reveals a more complex public perspective. Only 42% endorse mass deportations, and 39% are in favor of modifying the legal immigration framework.
In his first week back in office, President Trump quickly implemented a series of executive orders and policy changes. Significant actions included declaring a national emergency at the southern border, initiating mass deportation efforts, and signing an order to end birthright citizenship.
