A Busy Second Term, But Public Support Lags

Donald Trump has launched an energetic second term. However, new polling suggests he is struggling to win over the American public.

More than a year has passed since Trump returned to the White House. Since then, his presidency has rarely slowed down.

Swift Changes After Returning to Office

Upon reentering the Oval Office, the 79-year-old president moved quickly. He pushed changes across several fronts. These included immigration policy, global trade, and even the White House’s interior décor.

At the same time, Trump has repeatedly claimed he is working to prevent wars and save lives worldwide.

Foreign Policy Sparks Global Tension

Despite those claims, Trump has also issued military threats. These have involved countries such as Iran, Mexico, and Venezuela. Most controversially, he has floated action involving Greenland—a self-governing territory owned by Denmark and a NATO ally.

As a result, European leaders have pushed back. They have criticized Trump for repeatedly insisting that the U.S. should annex Greenland.

The Trump administration argues the move is strategic. Officials say the U.S. must act to keep the region out of Chinese or Russian influence.

Immigration Crackdowns Divide the Nation

Meanwhile, immigration remains a flashpoint. Trump has faced sharp criticism over what opponents describe as heavy-handed ICE operations in communities nationwide.

Still, supporters defend the approach. They argue the president is simply delivering on his campaign promises.

Poll Numbers Reflect Growing Discontent

These controversies appear to be reflected in the latest AP-NORC poll from January.

According to the survey, about four in ten U.S. adults approve of Trump’s job performance so far. That number has remained largely unchanged since March 2025, when he returned to office.

As of January 8, 2026:

• 59% of adults disapprove of Trump’s performance

• 40% approve of how he is handling the job

Approval Slips on Key Issues

The poll also shows broad dissatisfaction across major policy areas:

• Economy: 37% approve, 62% disapprove

• Immigration: 38% approve, 61% disapprove

• Foreign policy: 37% approve, 61% disapprove

• Trade negotiations: 37% approve, 61% disapprove

Overall, the data suggests the president faces steep challenges on issues central to his agenda.

Understanding the Poll’s Limits

Finally, the poll included a reminder about uncertainty. All surveys carry a margin of error. Subgroups—such as younger or older adults—often have larger margins than the general population.

Even so, the results offer a clear snapshot: Trump’s second term remains active, controversial, and deeply polarizing.