Donald Trump holds the lowest 100-day job approval rating of any U.S. president in the past 80 years, according to a new ABC News/Washington Post/Ipsos poll, as widespread dissatisfaction with his policies and growing economic fears weigh heavily on public opinion.
Only 39% of respondents said they approve of Trump’s performance, down six points since February, while 55% disapprove. The previous record for the lowest approval rating at or near the 100-day mark was also held by Trump in 2017, when he stood at 42%.
Despite these grim numbers, Trump still outperforms Democrats in Congress when it comes to public trust in handling the nation’s biggest challenges.
However, economic concerns loom large. Seventy-two percent of Americans believe it is very or somewhat likely that Trump’s economic policies will trigger a recession in the short term. A staggering 73% said the economy is in bad shape, with 53% reporting that conditions have worsened since Trump took office. Forty-one percent said their personal financial situation has deteriorated—matching the levels seen under President Joe Biden last summer.
Inflation remains a major sticking point: 62% said prices are still rising, despite Trump’s campaign promises to curb them. Additionally, 71% blamed his tariffs for contributing to inflation. Only 31% believe Trump’s argument that short-term economic pain will ultimately result in a stronger long-term foundation.
The dissatisfaction extends well beyond economic issues. Sixty-five percent said Trump’s administration is actively trying to avoid compliance with federal court orders, while 64% believe he is overreaching in expanding presidential powers.
Sixty-two percent said they feel the administration does not respect the rule of law.
Moreover, majorities voiced concerns that Trump is reducing the size and role of government too aggressively (58%), has acted beyond his presidential authority without sufficient justification (56%), and is failing to protect citizens’ rights and freedoms (55%).
The findings suggest Trump faces deep and widening skepticism—not just about the economy, but about the very way he is exercising presidential power.
