President Donald Trump’s approval rating rose to 44% this week, up from 42% in late April, according to a new Reuters/Ipsos poll. The uptick comes as Americans express fewer concerns about the economy and the likelihood of a recession.
Support for Trump’s handling of the economy climbed to 39%, up from 36% previously. The poll, conducted online among 1,163 adults nationwide, has a margin of error of 3 percentage points.
Trump, who began his second term with a 47% approval rating, faced early backlash over aggressive trade policies, including historic tariff hikes on China. These actions spurred fears of an economic downturn and contributed to stock market volatility. However, in recent weeks, Trump has reversed course by cutting tariffs on China, helping restore market confidence. The S&P 500 has since rebounded by 17% from its lowest point earlier in his term.
Public concern over a potential recession has eased but remains significant. The poll shows 69% of Americans are still worried about a recession, down from 76% in mid-April. Concern about the stock market also declined to 60% from 67%.
Despite recent gains, 59% of respondents said Trump would be to blame if the economy enters a recession this year, compared to 37% who blamed former President Joe Biden. Trump continues to argue that economic struggles stem from Biden’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, which drove inflation. While inflation has slowed in recent months, economists warn Trump’s renewed trade actions could reignite price pressures later in 2025.
As the 2025 economy remains a key issue, Trump’s shifting trade strategy and its impact on inflation, markets, and voter sentiment will likely remain in focus.