Stunning 2025 Poll Swings: Trump’s Approval Climbs, Budget Backlash Mounts, Americans Split on Surveillance and Race
2025’s latest poll reveals Trump’s approval rebound, sharp views on his budget, and explosive debates over immigration, race, and freedoms.
- 45% of Americans now approve of Trump’s job performance—a big jump from April
- 51% favor U.S. universities as the world’s best or better than most
- 53% support government monitoring of immigrant applicants’ social media
- 48% say race relations have worsened since George Floyd’s death
The latest Economist/YouGov poll rocked the political landscape this week, revealing a dramatic recovery in former President Donald Trump’s job approval and deep American divisions on everything from the federal budget to free speech. As Trump’s numbers rise and policy wars intensify, Americans confront 2025’s toughest questions: Who wins, who loses, and how far should government power go?
Why Is Trump’s Job Approval Rising in 2025?
After months of dismal ratings, Trump’s job approval clawed back to 45%—its highest in months. Half the country still disapproves, but the gap has narrowed sharply. Back in late April, 54% voiced disapproval. Now, it’s 49%—a 5-point rebound for Trump. While his net approval sits at -4, that’s ten points stronger than he polled at this point in his first term and only 14 points behind President Joe Biden’s current standing.
The improvement? More Americans now rate Trump positively on his handling of hot-button issues like immigration and crime—two of 2025’s most urgent concerns. But skepticism lingers: most still doubt his stewardship on jobs and inflation, echoing ongoing anxieties about the economy.
Stay up to date on U.S. political trends at NPR and Politico.
Q&A: What Do Americans Really Think About Trump’s 2025 Budget?
- Q: Does the public back Trump’s budget plan?
A: No—45% oppose it, with only 37% supportive. Most worry it will increase the deficit and benefit the wealthy. - Q: Who gains—and who loses?
A: Over half of respondents believe the rich will win, while 4 out of 10 fear the poorest Americans will be left behind. - Q: Will the budget mean higher taxes?
A: 37% brace for a tax hike on their household.
Americans say the new budget helps the “average Joe” far less than it hurts: 47% think it’ll hit pocketbooks, versus just 27% who expect a boost.
How Are Voters Lining Up for the 2026 Midterms?
The race for Congress remains razor-thin. Among all adults, Democrats hold a narrow 39% to 36% edge over Republicans, with a quarter of voters undecided or uninterested—a wild card for both parties. Among those who typically turn out, Democrats still keep a slim lead. Confidence runs high on both sides, though: three-quarters of party loyalists expect victory next year.
Dig into more on election dynamics at Reuters.
Universities & Research: Where Does America Stand?
A majority of Americans (51%) champion U.S. universities as top-tier globally, with Democrats more likely to hold this view. When it comes to research funding, most favor upping the federal investment—especially Democrats, while Republicans are split. And despite political polarization, only a small minority say international students are a bad influence, with young Republicans displaying more openness than older conservatives.
Should Government Monitor Social Media Accounts?
National security vs. civil liberties ignites debate. Over half (53%) accept the government reviewing the social media of would-be immigrants. But Americans draw a sharp line: 68% reject any spying on U.S. citizens not under investigation. When it comes to trusting the government to judge social content, skepticism reigns—just 39% have significant trust.
While Republicans lean toward citing security for surveillance, Democrats suspect political motives.
Want the latest civil liberties news? Visit ACLU.
Do Free Speech Concerns Still Divide America?
More than one in three Americans don’t feel at ease sharing their opinions in public—an anxiety that cuts across party lines. Democrats, Republicans, and Independents all report unease, flipping the script from just two years ago. The climate for online expression, especially for immigrants, remains fraught: most support equal digital rights, but Republican skepticism lingers.
How Have Race Relations Evolved Since George Floyd?
Five years after George Floyd’s killing, opinions remain heated. 60% now say the police acted unjustifiably, though more Republicans have changed their minds since 2020. Approval of peaceful protests after such tragedies has grown—Republican support has especially gained ground, climbing 15 points since 2021.
Yet, nearly half of Americans believe race relations have worsened, and just 15% see progress.
How Will Heatwaves and Tourism Shape the Summer of 2025?
Americans gear up for sweltering days, with many bracing for more extreme weather and eyeing shifting patterns in tourism. As international travel warms up and global visitors return, the country faces new challenges in balancing security, economic growth, and cultural exchange.
Stay informed, stay engaged—debate the issues shaping America’s future.
- ✔️ Track approval polls routinely for key trends
- ✔️ Compare candidate platforms and budget plans
- ✔️ Discuss civil liberties and free speech with your community
- ✔️ Monitor upcoming midterm forecasts and register to vote
Find more breaking updates and in-depth perspectives at The Economist and U.S. News.
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