To understand Trump’s defiance, you have to look at his history with polls.
In 2015, experts said he’d never win a primary.
In 2016, they said he’d never win the presidency.
In 2020, they said he was finished after losing re-election.
And in 2024, he stunned them all by reclaiming the White House.
For millions of supporters — especially those who feel ignored by Washington elites — this isn’t arrogance. It’s authenticity.
What Comes Next
Trump’s campaign advisors argue that the polls are misleading. They say voters are frustrated by tone but satisfied with results.
“The fundamentals are strong,” insisted campaign advisor Chris LaCivita. “Jobs are up, wages are rising, inflation is cooling. Feelings don’t change the facts.”
Still, even Republicans admit that low approval ratings can become self-fulfilling. Once the perception of unpopularity sets in, it can be hard to rally lawmakers and voters.
Democrats, meanwhile, smell opportunity. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer recently posted: “Trump’s approval ratings are falling for one simple reason — Americans are waking up to the damage his chaos is doing.”
The Bottom Line
The new polls are a wake-up call for the Trump administration. They highlight frustration with the economy, discontent with his leadership style, and doubts about his ability to unite the country.
But if history is any guide, Donald Trump thrives in moments like these. Every time he’s been counted out, he’s found a way to prove the experts wrong.
As he said before boarding Air Force One this week: “The fake news says the numbers are down. I say America is going up. We’re winning — and the best is yet to come.”
