President Donald Trump is once again under the microscope as voters across the country weigh his performance leading up to his highly anticipated address to Congress. Recent polling, conducted between February 28 and March 2, 2025, reveals fluctuative trends within public opinion, especially among younger voters, including those from Generation Z.
Trump's overall approval rating currently stands at 49% approval and 48% disapproval, marking a slight decline compared to previous weeks when he garnered 50% approval. This dip also reflects its consequences as at the same point during Trump's first term, the approval was at 50% with only 45% disapproving. Interestingly, approval ratings fluctuate significantly among demographic segments, with young voters shifting their perceptions.
According to a recent Atlas poll, Generation Z provides Trump with a net approval rating of +5.4%, with 52.7% showing favorability compared to 47.3% who disapprove. This marks a notable reversal from January, where disapproval from this demographic reached as high as 58.7%. Michael Strawbridge, Assistant Professor of Political Science at Washington University, hints at the reasons behind this transformation, pointing out, “They’re going to have a different rubric. They’re evaluating Trump along than other groups are.”
Strawbridge emphasizes the economic concerns influencing younger voters, stating, “Gen Z says they care most about inflation and the economy compared to other generations.” The continued economic discussions resonate with them as job security and affordability dictate their evaluations. Given the recent uptick and subsequent declines observed within the polling data, he suggests the volatility of public opinion during uncertain economic times creates difficulty in accurately tracking sentiment.
Recent turmoil surrounding foreign policy also plays a role. Following Trump's challenging meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, reports indicated downward trends concerning approval ratings for Trump’s foreign policy. More than 43% of voters expressed having heard negative sentiments related to this blowup, contrasting sharply with the 21% who reported positive reception. This conflict, coupled with domestic issues, complicates voters' perceptions as they continue to evaluate Trump's leadership.
Vice President JD Vance faced backlash post his altercation with Zelenskyy, with his favorability ratings dipping to 42% favorable and 44% unfavorable as many voters turned away from his stance. Following their tough negotiations, even republican voters’ trust appears to be waning, indicating the complex dynamics surrounding Trump's current administration.
On the issues, voters remain heightened with significant priorities, demanding action particularly focused on economic controls like healthcare affordability as inflation rates continue to haunt constituents. A significant 52% expect Trump to prioritize economic needs, and his performance remains strongest on immigration and national security, gaining 55% and 53% approval respectively. Conversely, the highest disapproval reflects his handling of abortion, standing at 47% disapproval.
Polling by DailyMail.com also reflects the shifting tides as Trump’s overall approval ticked up to 54%, marking his highest rating post his reelection campaign. Among younger voters, approval surged to 56%, rising from 51% just weeks prior. "He has focused on taking out corruption in the government," noted one New York Democrat, showcasing how some voters still find merit even amid controversies surrounding Trump's approach.
Polling dynamics appear to reflect enthusiasm for Trump’s promises of governance through expansion, as 36% indicated being more favorable after witnessing his achievements, whilst 16% reported becoming more negative. James Johnson, cofounder of J.L. Partners, observed concerning trends, commenting, “We think this is a reflection of non-response bias rather than reality... energized Democrats who were not answering polls a month ago.