Trump’s Approval Hits 44% as Recession Worries Diminish

WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump’s approval rating has risen to 44%, as fewer Americans express concerns about a potential recession and his management of the economy.

A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll indicates an increase in support for his economic policies.

Conducted over two days, the poll reveals that 44% of respondents approve of Trump’s administration, an increase from 42% in a previous survey conducted from April 25 to 27. The margin of error for the poll is 3 percentage points.

Furthermore, approval for Trump’s economic management has climbed from 36% to 39%.

When he took office, Trump had a 47% approval rating, but it has since decreased as many citizens became concerned about the trade wars initiated during his presidency starting January 20.

His administration’s decision to increase tariffs on key trading partners, particularly China, led to declines in the stock market, as many economists warned of an impending recession.

In recent weeks, however, Trump has moderated some of his more aggressive trade policies and announced on Monday that he would be reducing tariffs on China. The benchmark S&P 500 index has since rebounded, gaining approximately 17% from its lowest point during Trump’s second term, which coincided with the introduction of the expansive tariffs.

Public concern regarding a recession has also diminished but remains significant.

In the latest poll, 69% of participants indicated they are worried about a recession, down from 76% in a previous Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted from April 16 to 21. Additionally, the percentage of those concerned about the stock market has decreased from 67% to 60%.

Trump has attributed the nation’s economic troubles to former President Joe Biden, his Democratic predecessor. Inflation soared during Biden’s time in office amidst global economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, but it showed signs of easing toward the end of his presidency. The Labor Department reported a cooling of annual inflation rates in April, although economists warn that Trump’s trade policies may lead to price increases later this year.

According to the Reuters/Ipsos poll, 59% of respondents believe that if the economy does enter a recession this year, it would be Trump’s fault, compared to 37% who hold Biden responsible.

The poll, conducted online across the nation, included responses from 1,163 individuals.