U.S. President Donald Trump’s popularity is declining as recent polls show a decrease in approval ratings, including among some Republican voters, who are becoming less supportive of his policies. While Trump’s recent tax and healthcare spending bill has faced criticism, the issue of tariffs has emerged as a major concern for many Americans.
According to a recent Pew Research Center poll of 3,554 U.S. adults, Trump’s approval rating stands at 38%, marking a notable drop of nine percentage points since February, the lowest level recorded during his current term. A significant majority, 61% of all respondents, disapprove of Trump’s strategy of imposing higher tariffs on imported goods from other nations.
Among Republican voters, while about 85% approve of Trump’s overall job performance, only 31% strongly support his tariff policies. These tariffs have led to increased prices, economic uncertainty, and strained relations with countries like Canada.
Chuck Dardas, the president of AlphaUSA, an auto parts firm in Michigan, expressed concerns about the impact of Trump’s tariffs on his business. He highlighted the rising costs due to tariffs on steel and aluminum, posing a threat to the company’s viability and potentially leading to closure without relief.
Similarly, Madeleine Wiering, co-owner of Papillon Press in Missouri, criticized Trump’s decision to eliminate exemptions on low-value imports, which has disrupted her business importing specialty products. She emphasized that the belief that foreign countries pay tariffs is misleading, and the actual burden falls on American businesses and consumers.
Moreover, Larissa Peterson, an auto industry worker in Michigan, discussed the adverse effects of tariffs on business confidence and prices, contrary to Trump’s promises. She outlined how sales have declined, hours reduced, and anxiety increased among workers due to the uncertain future caused by ongoing tariff measures.
Overall, these individuals echo concerns about the detrimental impact of Trump’s tariff policies on businesses, consumers, and the economy, emphasizing the urgent need for a reevaluation of these measures.
