Trump Faces New Threat From Independent Voters
A newly released national poll suggests President Donald Trump is experiencing a downturn in support among independent voters, even as his backing among Republicans remains solid.
According to the latest Economist/YouGov survey, Trump’s net job approval with independents has slipped to negative 40 percentage points. The poll found 27 percent approving of the president’s performance, compared to 67 percent disapproving — the weakest showing among independents across both of Trump’s terms in office.
Just one week earlier, Trump’s net approval among independents stood at negative 31 points, and earlier this month it was measured at negative 28 points, indicating a noticeable downward trend. Pollsters cautioned, however, that weekly surveys can fluctuate and said it remains unclear whether the drop reflects a lasting shift or short-term variation.
Strong GOP Support, Predictable Partisan Divide
Despite the dip with independents, Trump continues to post overwhelming support within his own party. Among Republicans, his net approval stands at positive 72 points, with 85 percent approving and only 13 percent disapproving.
Democratic voters, by contrast, remain firmly opposed. The poll shows Trump’s net approval among Democrats at negative 86 points, with just 6 percent approving and 92 percent disapproving, underscoring the deep partisan divide that has defined modern American politics.
Economy and Immigration Dominate National Debate
The survey comes at a time of growing voter concern over economic conditions, including inflation and cost-of-living pressures that continue to impact retirees and working families alike.
It also coincides with renewed national attention on federal immigration enforcement, particularly following controversial incidents tied to protests in Minnesota. Those events — involving clashes between demonstrators and federal officers — have reignited debate over border security, federal authority, and public safety.
One of the incidents occurred during the polling period itself, potentially influencing responses as media coverage intensified.
Poll Details
The Economist/YouGov poll was conducted January 23–26 and surveyed 1,684 U.S. adults. The results carry a margin of error of ±3.3 percentage points.
