Nearly one year after Donald Trump returned to the White House as the 47th president, new polls reveal a nation still deeply divided over his leadership. Since January, Trump has moved aggressively to undo prior policies on immigration, the economy, and global trade. His sweeping tariff agenda sparked market disruption, while the federal government endured the longest shutdown in U.S. history during the fall.

On the world stage, Trump met with Vladimir Putin in an effort to influence the war in Ukraine. Domestically, he sent National Guard troops into major U.S. cities, citing rising crime.

Despite nonstop activity, public approval remains weak. An October survey showed a 63 percent disapproval rating, with frustration fueled by inflation and the slow release of the Jeffrey Epstein files, according to polling cited by Reuters. A December The New York Times poll showed a slight rebound to 42 percent approval, yet only 26 percent approved of his handling of the cost of living.

Even Republican support is slipping, particularly on economic policy. A Gallup survey found Trump trailing where Joe Biden stood at the same point in his term. Meanwhile, Barack Obama remains far more popular than both.

Looking ahead, Democrats currently lead generic congressional polling, signaling potential trouble for Republicans in the upcoming midterms.