Key Highlights:

• Trump's approval ratings have turned negative for the first time since his return, with polls showing fluctuating support.
• Recent surveys indicate high disapproval regarding his handling of the economy and cost of living, amid rising inflation.
• Despite low overall ratings, his congressional address received favorable reactions from a majority of viewers.

President Donald Trump is confronting a decline in his approval ratings as he prepares for a significant address to a joint session of Congress, a situation underscored by recent polling data. According to ABC News, his approval rating shifted from a narrow positive base to a negative stance, suggesting growing dissatisfaction among the American populace.

As noted in recent surveys, including those by Newsweek, only 45% of Americans currently approve of Trump's performance, with 49% disapproving. Polling data reflect a deepening divide in public opinion, especially regarding his handling of pressing economic issues, where only a third of respondents endorsed his actions related to the cost of living.

A Reuters/Ipsos poll indicated that a significant majority of Americans, 54%, disapprove of Trump's handling of inflation, a sentiment echoed across a spectrum of polls. This has become a critical concern as his administration has enacted steep tariffs on imports, raising fears of further inflation. Support for these measures is minimal, with only 31% believing they would be beneficial amidst rising prices.

Trump's broader approval ratings on other issues, such as foreign policy and corruption, sit below 40%. Nonetheless, he has garnered a more favorable 49% on immigration policy, revealing a stark contrast in voter perception on various topics. Historically, polling results before such a critical address reflect pivotal shifts that can influence public sentiment.

Interestingly, despite these low approval ratings, Trump's recent joint address to Congress was met with approval from a considerable section of the audience. According to a CNN poll, approximately 69% reacted positively to his speech, with CBS News and YouGov reporting even higher numbers at 76%. This polarized environment illustrates a disconnect between Trump's administration's economic policies and public approval, which will be vital as he moves forward with his presidential agenda.

Political analysts note that Trump’s previous congressional addresses had minimal impact on altering approval ratings, typically remaining stagnant or only marginally changing. Before this address, Trump's overall approval gave way to his approval rating dipping into negative territory for the first time since his inauguration, with forecasts suggesting he may experience extended challenges in regaining substantial support.

As Trump's approval ratings continue to fluctuate, the impact of his policies on the economy remains a focal point for voters and analysts alike, especially as the 2024 presidential elections draw increasingly near.