With tariff turmoil, President Donald Trump is facing the steepest decline in public approval of his political career as the American public increasingly voices frustration over rising expenses, the ongoing trade war, and his controversial tariff policies. Recent polling data paints a grim picture for Trump, with his approval rating falling to negative territory and economic discontent reaching unprecedented levels.
According to a CBS News / YouGov poll released this week, a staggering 75% of Americans are now concerned about the rising cost of living. These numbers mark a significant shift from the optimism that surrounded the early days of Trump’s second term just five months ago.
The survey reveals that Trump’s overall approval rating has plummeted to minus 6%, a sharp drop from a modestly positive 6% just two months prior. In perhaps the most damning figure of the poll, 58% of voters are now openly rejecting Trump’s tariff regime, and 56% express deep dissatisfaction with his economic policies.
For a president who once touted himself as a champion of the working class and a master negotiator on the global stage, the backlash is more than just political noise—it’s a resounding call for change from the American electorate.
“Donald Trump has got to go, hey hey, go home,” chanted protestors across major U.S. cities over the weekend, echoing a growing sentiment among everyday citizens who feel increasingly burdened by the economic fallout of Trump’s protectionist agenda.
Demonstrations from New York to Los Angeles have erupted, with Americans demanding a reevaluation of trade strategies and accusing the administration of pushing the economy into a deeper crisis. From grocery stores to car dealerships, consumers are feeling the sting of inflated prices.
Many experts now believe Trump’s policies are not only outdated but detrimental to the country’s long-term prosperity. “He’s ruining our infrastructure and destroying the economy,” said one political analyst during a CNN panel review. “Every department of our government is suffering. This isn’t leadership—it’s demolition.”
The sentiment is shared across socioeconomic lines. From single mothers budgeting for groceries to senior citizens watching their retirement funds dwindle due to inflation, disillusionment is palpable.
A former Trump supporter, Marissa Hibbert, shared her concerns. “I had to stock up on skincare products and basic essentials before the new tariffs took effect. It’s survival mode now,” she said. “Everyday items are getting out of reach.”
Tariffs on imported goods are expected to cost the average American household thousands of dollars annually. Low-income families are expected to bear the brunt of the impact, further widening the wealth gap.
The ripple effects of tariff turmoil are also being felt internationally. Trump’s unpredictable policy shifts are alienating traditional allies. From Europe to the Far East, foreign governments are beginning to question the reliability of the United States as a global partner.
Trump’s handling of NATO relations and the Ukraine crisis has only exacerbated concerns. Analysts argue that the administration’s erratic behavior is eroding America’s global standing and influence.
Domestically, the political damage is becoming irreversible. The Republican Party, long considered Trump’s stronghold, is facing internal turmoil. Senior GOP leaders are reportedly concerned about the long-term implications of sticking with a president whose popularity is in freefall.
The CBS/YouGov poll showed that 60% of respondents no longer trust Trump to control inflation. Worse still, 53% believe the economy is deteriorating under his leadership. In stark contrast, only 21% blame President Joe Biden for the current economic woes, a significant decline from earlier figures.
“These numbers are historically bad,” remarked CNN data analyst Harry Enten. “Trump is now being held more accountable for the economic crisis than his predecessor. That’s a pivotal shift in public opinion.”
Critics argue that the president’s cabinet, often dubbed a “ship of fools,” has contributed to the chaos. Accusations of incompetence and recklessness in economic and military decision-making are becoming more frequent and harder to dismiss.
“The way Trump is executing his economic plan is chaotic and counterproductive,” said one Wall Street analyst. “Investors are losing confidence, and with the market increasingly unstable, long-term investment in the U.S. is at risk.”
Consumer behavior is shifting rapidly due to tariff turmoil. With inflation expectations on the rise and recession fears looming, Americans are cutting back on discretionary spending. This could spell disaster for key sectors of the economy, including retail and manufacturing.
Auto imports, now subject to a 25% tariff, are significantly impacting potential buyers. “I’m just glad I don’t need a car right now,” said one D.C. resident. “It’s become a luxury I can’t afford.”
The long-term consequences could be generational. Parents and grandparents alike worry about the financial burden being passed on to future generations. “This isn’t just about us,” one protester remarked. “It’s about the kind of country we’re leaving behind.”
As Trump’s political future grows increasingly uncertain, so too does the stability of the American economy. What was once seen as a bold move to protect domestic industries is now viewed by many as a dangerous gamble that has failed to deliver.
With the 2026 midterms approaching, political strategists are closely watching whether this collapse in support will translate into a broader shift in the political landscape. If the polls are any indication, Trump and his policies are in serious jeopardy.
With the rising tariff turmoil, for now, the message from Americans is loud and clear: enough is enough.
