By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Recent survey data indicates a significant decline in former President Donald Trump’s approval rating among young people aged 18-29, with a 35 percentage point drop since November 2024. This shift potentially reverses the trend observed in the 2024 election, where Trump saw increased support among younger voters, particularly Hispanic voters, due to policies like tariffs and immigration. While some polls show a contrasting improvement, the overall trend suggests that Republicans may struggle to maintain their gains if this decline persists, potentially impacting the 2026 midterm elections. The decline is likely due to the rising cost of living, cultural issues, and perceived self-interest.
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Donald Trump’s approval rating plummets among young. It’s a recurring theme, and honestly, it’s not surprising. Considering the state of things, and the general sentiment, you’d almost expect it to be zero, or close to it. It’s worth noting, however, that simply because an approval rating might be low, doesn’t necessarily translate to a complete rejection of the person, or even the party in the future.
The fact that some young people ever liked him in the first place is a bit baffling. However, let’s not lose sight of the core issue. It appears some might be realizing that the Trump era didn’t deliver the promised results. The fact is, for a lot of young people, the issues that concern them are often overlooked.
Of course, with this topic, you’ll hear things like, “They should’ve voted then.” It’s a common refrain, but it highlights a crucial point. Simply showing up to vote is a key element of shaping the future.
Then there’s the rhetoric: “the smelly man’s self-enrichment with no regards to public welfare.” This goes to the heart of a core problem, perception versus reality. In this case, many view what they see as a focus on self-interest rather than the public good.
Let’s talk about the government and what it *can* and *cannot* do. Some younger voters might lack a thorough understanding of civics, the limitations and capabilities of the system. Some young voters were swayed by what some might consider shallow desires.
It is true that what’s already been done has already been done. The consequences are now playing out, irrespective of approval ratings.
When you hear things like, “the obese, annoying, old man in bad drag queen makeup isn’t popular?” you get to the core of what people see. The optics. The perception. The image. This is a key part of this story.
It’s also said that, “This administration is really screwing the future generations.” It’s a sentiment that resonates with many young people, who feel the brunt of political decisions.
“How the fuck is this superior dumbass rapist still holding office at this point.” It’s a blunt, but it speaks to the frustration and, frankly, a sense of disbelief that many young people feel.
“Good. He is a fucking monster and many young people will probably never be in a good position to retire as a result of his bullshit.” This points to the long-term consequences, the worry about the future, and the economic implications of policy decisions.
Polls, ratings – in the grand scheme of things, do they matter? Some say no, at this point, they don’t. The key is what happens next, and if people act.
Then there’s the “podcast from a B rate entertainment hack.” It’s a cynical take on the media’s role in shaping opinion. There’s a perception that certain voices are still trying to bring people back onboard.
It’s also said that the young people will pay the price and that many voted for it. It underscores the feeling of responsibility.
It doesn’t matter if the approval ratings are up, or down. It’s about getting involved. “Anyone who complains and then doesn’t do shit during voting time is just as bad as the people that voted this shit into office in the first place.”
“Republicans always plummet in popularity while they’re governing and then during the next dem administration while the dems are fixing everything they fucked up, they trot out the ‘come back baby… it’ll be different this time… He’s no good for you’ approach and it works every single time.” It highlights the potential for a cyclical nature of political fortunes.
There’s also a sentiment that the Trump voters have learned their lesson, and that they didn’t vote to have the country on a path to fascist ruin.
“He never should have had any sort of approval rating from the young.” It’s a reflection on what many see as a fundamental disconnect between the policies and promises of Trump, and the interests of young people. The core argument.
Ultimately, the fact that the approval rating had anywhere to plummet from is “fucking depressing.” It reveals the challenges and a lot of the core viewpoints around it.