Trump’s Disapproval Rating Hits Record High
Tehran - BORNA - A recent poll conducted by Yahoo News and YouGov, surveying 1,704 American adults between February 9 and February 12, found that only 38% of Americans approve of Donald Trump’s performance as president. This marks a decline from 40% in the previous month.
The survey also indicates that this approval rating matches the lows seen in July 2020 during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, Trump’s disapproval rating has surged to 58%, a new record for his presidency.
Upon his return to the White House, Trump’s average favorability rating initially stood higher than his unfavorability. However, these two trends crossed in March 2025. Since then, the President's net popularity has continued to slide, dropping significantly from earlier Yahoo/YouGov assessments in April 2025.
The "Metro Surge" Fallout and Public Backlash
A primary factor behind the President's declining popularity appears to be the severe public reaction to the aggressive immigration crackdown in major U.S. cities. Specifically, "Operation Metro Surge" in Minneapolis has drawn intense scrutiny after federal immigration agents fatally shot two American citizens, identified as Renee Good and Alex Pretti.
The poll reveals a significant disconnect between the administration's tactics and public opinion. A vast majority of Americans favor a different approach to immigration management. For instance, only 27% of respondents agree that the federal government should "round up and deport as many undocumented immigrants as possible, regardless of whether they have committed other crimes."
In contrast, 60% of Americans—more than double the aforementioned group—believe the government should "deport undocumented immigrants who have committed crimes since arriving in the U.S., but provide a path to citizenship for those who have not."
Focus and Intensity of Disapproval
The data raises questions about whether Trump’s approval will deteriorate further if he persists with these unpopular policies. In March 2025, public sentiment regarding his immigration handling was largely positive, with 48% in favor and 44% opposed. Today, that rating has flipped to its most negative standing yet: 41% in favor and 55% opposed.
Furthermore, public perception regarding the President's priorities has shifted. In early 2025, Americans were evenly split on whether he was focusing on the country's most important issues. Today, 55% of Americans believe Trump is focusing on "unimportant issues," while only 35% hold a contrary view.
The President also faces a growing "intensity gap" in public opinion. Currently, 49% of Americans "strongly" disapprove of Trump’s job performance, while only 22% "strongly" approve. Similar intensity is seen regarding immigration, with 46% strongly opposed compared to 28% strongly in favor.
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