Full Breakdown
Trump’s Approval Ratings Plummet Amid Record Government Shutdown
11/4/2025, 11:01:35 PM
Ongoing Government Shutdown and Its Impact
As of November 4, 2025, the U.S. federal government shutdown has entered its 35th day, potentially becoming the longest shutdown in U.S. history. This extended closure has significantly affected public perception of President Donald Trump, with recent polling reflecting a sharp decline in his approval ratings. Various polls indicate that Trump's disapproval ratings hover around 50% to 63%, with a CNN/SSRS poll reporting a disapproval rate of 63% and an approval rate of only 37%. This marks the lowest approval rating of his second term and is only slightly above the 36% approval rating he experienced at a similar point during his first term.
Polling Data Overview
Recent surveys reveal a consistent trend of dissatisfaction among Americans regarding Trump's job performance. The NBC News poll shows a 55% disapproval rate, while the ABC/Washington Post/Ipsos poll indicates a 59% disapproval rate. In Michigan, a Civiqs poll found that 54% disapprove of Trump, with only 42% approving. The overall sentiment reflects a broader discontent with the state of the economy, as over 70% of respondents describe current economic conditions as "poor" or "very poor."
Economic Concerns and Public Sentiment
The ongoing government shutdown has exacerbated public dissatisfaction, with 61% of respondents in a CNN poll disapproving of Trump's handling of the situation. A significant majority, approximately 68%, believe the country is heading in the wrong direction, attributing their concerns largely to economic issues. The economy and cost of living are identified as the most pressing issues by 47% of respondents, further illustrating the disconnect between Trump's policies and public sentiment.
Criticism of Trump's Economic Policies
Critics argue that Trump's economic policies, particularly his tariffs, have contributed to the current economic malaise. A majority of Americans (61%) believe that Trump's policies have worsened economic conditions. The Supreme Court is set to hear a pivotal case regarding the legality of Trump's tariffs, which have been a cornerstone of his economic agenda. If the court rules against the tariffs, it could lead to significant financial repercussions for the government and businesses that have been affected by these policies.
Official Statements and Responses
In light of the declining approval ratings and the ongoing shutdown, experts suggest that Trump's popularity may improve once the government reopens and services are restored. Heath Brown, an associate professor of public policy, noted, "Americans like it when things work," indicating that the resolution of the shutdown could positively influence public perception.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While various polls consistently show negative ratings for Trump, there are discrepancies in the exact figures reported. For instance, the RealClearPolitics average indicates a net approval rating of -8.9 percentage points, while other sources report even lower figures. This inconsistency highlights the volatility of public opinion during this tumultuous period.
What's Next
As the Supreme Court prepares to hear arguments regarding Trump's tariffs, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for both his economic policies and his approval ratings. A ruling is expected before the end of June 2026, which may further influence public sentiment as the nation approaches the November 2026 midterm elections.
