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Trump's Approval Rises Amid Controversies and Protests

1/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump has seen his approval rating rise to 35%–44% after a week of controversial events.
The week included the capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. troops.
A Washington Post poll showed 40% approve of the U.S. military intervention.
Protests erupted after federal immigration agents fatally shot a mother in Minneapolis.
Analysts say extreme partisanship may diminish the relevance of approval ratings in predicting election outcomes.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. invaded Panama on December 20, 1989, to depose Manuel Noriega, marking its largest military action since the Vietnam War with over 27,000 troops deployed. This intervention aimed to restore democracy after Noriega's fraudulent election annulment in May 1989. The operation's legacy continues to influence U.S. military involvement in Latin America, as seen in recent actions against Nicolás Maduro.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump has seen his approval rating rise to 35%–44% after a week of controversial events.
The week included the capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. troops.
A Washington Post poll showed 40% approve of the U.S. military intervention.
Protests erupted after federal immigration agents fatally shot a mother in Minneapolis.
Analysts say extreme partisanship may diminish the relevance of approval ratings in predicting election outcomes.

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