By John Q. Hosedrinker 
A Gallup poll reveals President Trump’s initial approval rating at 47%, exceeding his first term’s 45% but remaining the lowest among presidents since 1953. This marks him as the only president to begin his term with sub-50% approval. While this represents a relatively high point for his presidency, the rating is sharply divided along partisan lines, with strong Republican support contrasted by low Democratic and independent approval. His administration has been characterized by numerous executive orders impacting immigration, diversity initiatives, foreign policy, and government spending.
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President Trump’s approval rating is reportedly historically low, a fact that generates a wide range of reactions. Some find the low numbers inconsequential, arguing that his actions and policies already have far-reaching consequences, regardless of public opinion. The belief that his approval rating, even at zero, wouldn’t significantly alter the current situation is widespread.
The low approval rating, however, is viewed by others as a crucial indicator. It challenges the notion of widespread support for his administration and undermines the perceived popularity of his behavior, temperament, and policy decisions. The perception that a significant portion of the population voted for the very consequences they are now facing is also prevalent.
Despite the low approval rating, concerns remain that it is still too high. The expectation is that it will eventually drop even further, possibly settling into a persistently low range, mirroring the trend observed during his first term. There’s a belief that corporate media may attempt to normalize his low approval, preventing it from falling below a certain threshold. A sustained dip below 40% is interpreted by some as a sign that powerful figures are plotting to remove Trump from power.
The historically low approval rating is contrasted with the fact that he won the election, even after a widely perceived disastrous first term. Many find it hard to comprehend how this happened, with some even suggesting that the electoral processes were manipulated. This generates disbelief and anger about the current state of affairs, leading to speculation about the election’s legitimacy.
The significance of presidential approval ratings is also questioned in the context of the current political climate. The argument is that low approval ratings, traditionally viewed as a check on power, are less effective now because the Republican Party’s voting base remains largely unwavering, irrespective of their actions.
Adding to the complex reactions, there’s widespread frustration and disappointment over the current situation. Many express regret for not voting differently and now fear the impact of Trump’s actions on their lives and the future of the country. There’s a sentiment that he continues to act irresponsibly, failing to keep promises or take accountability. His actions are described as reckless and damaging, leading to significant concern and worry.
Moreover, his personal characteristics are brought under scrutiny. The descriptions range from “malignant narcissist” to “diminished, empty vessel of a man”, focusing on issues such as his crass behavior, lack of social sensitivity, and cognitive decline. A sense of disbelief persists over the fact that someone with such characteristics holds such a powerful position.
Finally, despite the low approval rating, a sense of helplessness pervades the discussion. Many believe that polls and public opinion are no longer relevant to Trump’s actions or ability to govern. The belief that he can and will act according to his own agenda, regardless of popular opinion, is widely held. The suggestion to actively resist his actions through boycotts, protests, and spreading awareness, rather than relying on polling data, is made. The low approval rating, therefore, acts as a catalyst for outrage and calls for action, rather than an end in itself.