CNN Poll: Most Americans Believe Trump Prioritizes Wrong Issues

A recent CNN poll conducted by SSRS reveals a significant decline in public confidence regarding President Donald Trump’s priorities, particularly in relation to economic issues. According to the survey, a majority of Americans feel that Trump is focusing on the wrong issues and not adequately addressing the rising cost of living.
Negative Public Sentiment Towards Trump’s Presidency
The poll indicates that 58% of respondents consider Trump’s first year in office a failure. Such sentiments pose a challenge as the country approaches midterm elections, where economic management is a crucial topic for House and Senate races.
Key Issues Identified by Americans
- 58% believe Trump’s presidency is a failure.
- 64% say he hasn’t done enough to lower everyday prices.
- Only 36% approve of his priorities, down from 45% at the term’s start.
Economic concerns dominate American priorities, with respondents selecting it as their top issue nearly two-to-one over any other topic. Despite Trump’s efforts, public perception suggests he is struggling to demonstrate effective action in this area.
Public Expectations and Perceptions
Views on the economy remain predominantly negative, with only approximately 30% rating economic conditions positively. Notably, optimism about future economic performance has decreased. Just over 40% of those surveyed foresee a positive economic landscape within the next year, a drop from 56% prior to Trump taking office.
- 55% believe Trump’s policies have worsened economic conditions.
- Only 37% think he prioritizes the nation’s welfare over personal gain.
Concerns Among Various Demographics
The poll underscores a growing disconnect between Trump and the American public. About 29% of independents approve of his performance, revealing a significant decline in broader support. Furthermore, approval rates among Latino voters and younger adults have also fallen, highlighting potential challenges for Trump in appealing to these demographics.
Trump’s Approval Ratings
Overall, Trump’s job approval stands at 39%, reflecting stagnant and largely negative public opinion regarding his presidency. While he holds strong support within the Republican Party, with approximately 90% of Republicans approving of his performance, his image among independents and Democrats remains problematic.
Comparative Insights on Popularity
Trump’s approval ratings on various issues, including the economy and immigration, align closely with his overall approval percentages, suggesting a lack of a standout issue to bolster his popularity. In comparison, former President Joe Biden faced similar challenges in addressing public concerns about the economy.
- Immigration remains a positive for Trump’s base, frequently cited by supporters.
- Democratic values and the health of American democracy are critical concerns among disapproving respondents.
Final Thoughts
The CNN poll indicates heightened public scrutiny of Trump’s tenure, with 58% of Americans believing he has overstepped presidential powers. As the political landscape evolves, the disconnect between Trump’s priorities and public perception could have substantial implications for his administration moving forward.




