Politics can often feel like a whirlwind, but one number always sparks debate, Trump approval rating. With new polls being released weekly, Americans are eager to know where the former president stands not only nationally but also state by state. Recent reports shed light on his approval trends, the states where he remains strong, and the challenges he faces in winning over skeptics.
Trump Approval Rating Nationwide
According to a recent Morning Consult poll conducted from September 6–8, Trump approval rating stands at 45% nationally, while 52% of voters disapprove of his job performance. This indicates a net-negative approval margin, showing that while his base remains loyal, he faces significant opposition across the country.
Data from RealClearPolitics adds more context. It shows that Trump’s approval rating has fluctuated throughout the year. Earlier in January, his approval had a slight positive margin (+6.2), but by late April it dropped to its lowest point at -7.2 percentage points. As of September 12, RealClearPolitics places his approval margin at -5.5, while the New York Times aggregator marks it at -8.
State-by-State Breakdown of Trump’s Approval Rating
While Trump struggles with overall national approval, the picture looks different at the state level. Morning Consult data shows that Trump approval rating is positive in 25 states.
In Tennessee, where Trump recently announced plans to send the National Guard to Memphis to address crime, his support is particularly strong. He holds a 58% approval rating compared to 38% disapproval, making it his sixth-best state overall.
By contrast, Illinois paints a much different picture. Only 41% of voters approve of Trump’s performance, while 55% disapprove, placing Illinois among his weakest states.
Interestingly, in Georgia, a crucial swing state, Trump still enjoys a positive approval rating. In Arizona, another battleground state, his approval is evenly split. However, North Carolina and Nevada, which once leaned toward Trump, now show a net-negative approval according to the most recent data.
Trump Approval Rating Compared to Past Presidents
To understand Trump’s position, it helps to compare him to other modern presidents at similar points in their terms. Gallup polls reveal that Trump’s approval in August of his first years in office, both during his 45th and 47th presidencies, ranked lower than most of his predecessors.
For example, in August 2017, Trump’s approval rating was 36%, while Joe Biden held 49% approval in August 2021. Barack Obama had 53% approval in August 2009, George W. Bush stood at 56% in August 2001, and Ronald Reagan boasted 60% approval in August 1981. Only Bill Clinton, at 44%, and Trump himself had lower early-term ratings.
National Guard Deployment and Public Perception
Trump’s recent announcement that he will deploy the National Guard to Memphis has drawn both support and criticism. He argues it is necessary to address crime, pointing to his earlier decision to send troops to Washington, D.C. Critics note that crime rates had already declined before those deployments.
His comments about possibly sending troops to Chicago, which he described as a “hell hole,” were met with strong resistance from Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. By contrast, Tennessee leaders have welcomed the deployment, which could explain Trump’s higher approval numbers in that state.
Why Trump Approval Rating Matters
Approval ratings play a critical role in shaping political momentum. For Trump, they reflect not just his current standing but also his potential path forward in national politics. His strongholds in states like Tennessee show enduring loyalty, but losses in states such as Nevada and North Carolina raise challenges for future elections.
FAQs About Trump’s Approval Rating
- What is Trump’s current national approval rating?
According to Morning Consult, Trump’s approval is at 45%, with 52% disapproving. - Which states have the highest Trump approval rating?
Tennessee is one of his strongest states at 58% approval. Other strongholds are spread across the South and Midwest. - Which states have the lowest Trump approval rating?
Illinois is among the worst, with just 41% approval and 55% disapproval. - How does Trump’s approval compare to past presidents?
Trump’s early-term ratings have been historically low compared to presidents like Obama, Bush, and Reagan. - Why does Trump’s approval rating vary so much by state?
Local politics, cultural values, and responses to his policies (such as deploying the National Guard) heavily influence state-level approval.
Final Thoughts on Trump Approval Rating
The latest polls make it clear: Trump approval rating remains a tale of two Americas. In some states, he enjoys unwavering support, while in others, his numbers have fallen deeply negative. As debates about his policies and leadership continue, these approval ratings will remain one of the most important measures of his political future.
Disclaimer: This article is based on available polling data and public reports. Approval ratings can fluctuate quickly, and readers should check official sources for the latest updates. This content is for informational purposes only and does not represent an endorsement of any political figure or party.
