Polls Indicate Growing Concerns for Democrats and Trump’s Leadership

A recent AtlasIntel poll conducted from September 12-16, 2025, reveals significant concerns regarding the Democratic Party's leadership and its ability to effectively oppose President Donald Trump. The survey, which sampled 1,066 U.S. adults, indicates that 82% of respondents believe the Democratic Party is experiencing a leadership crisis. Additionally, 72% feel that Democrats lack the capability to meaningfully counter Trump's agenda, while 65% assert that the party is out of touch with the real issues affecting Americans. The poll also highlights that 60% of participants believe the party's "woke discourse has gone too far," and 56% feel that Democrats have betrayed some of their longstanding constituents.

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In contrast, Trump's approval ratings have dipped slightly, with only 35% of respondents approving of his management of the U.S. economy, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted around the same time. Concerns about the economy are prevalent, with 54% of participants indicating that the national economy is on the wrong track. Despite these economic worries, Trump's immigration policies maintain a relatively higher approval rating of 42%. The poll reflects a divided public opinion on political extremism, with 28% identifying it as the nation's biggest problem.

The Straits Times

Critics, including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, have voiced concerns about Trump's leadership style, describing it as authoritarian. Clinton warns that women's rights are under siege under the Trump administration, linking this regression to a broader trend of rising authoritarianism globally. She emphasizes that the current political climate represents a coordinated effort to dismantle progress toward gender equality, stating, "This is an all-hands-on-deck moment for women across the world."

New York Times

Trump's recent speech at the United Nations General Assembly has drawn international scrutiny, with leaders from various countries expressing alarm over his rhetoric and policies. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan criticized Trump's approach, emphasizing the need for multilateralism and cooperation against authoritarianism. Erdogan specifically condemned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's actions, highlighting the global implications of Trump's foreign policy.

The Guardian

While some analysts argue that Trump's policies are detrimental to the U.S. economy, others suggest that his approach to immigration and trade negotiations has garnered support among certain demographics. Economists have expressed concern over the erosion of democratic foundations, warning that autocratic tendencies could lead to long-term economic instability. Vanessa Williamson from the Brookings Institution stated, "Democracy is just good for the economy. And autocracy is bad for the economy."

Alternet

• “Subianto was strongly applauded when he asserted: “Might cannot be right; right must be right.” — Prabowo Subianto, President of Indonesia

The Guardian

• “The tyranny of the veto sabotages the very reason for the UN’s existence.” — Lula, President of Brazil

The Guardian

The current political landscape reflects deep divisions within the United States, as both the Democratic Party and Trump face significant challenges ahead of the 2026 midterms.

Fresno Bee