(NewsNation) — Immigration remains President Donald Trump’s strongest issue, but the economy has American voters increasingly concerned, an exclusive NewsNation/Decision Desk HQ poll found.
The poll, which surveyed 521 Republicans, 560 Democrats and 349 independent voters and 18 “others,” found that a majority of respondents disapprove of Trump’s whirlwind first days.
A majority, 56%, of respondents disapproved of Trump’s second-term performance so far, and 44% approved. The party divide is evident in the responses — 86% of Republicans approved of his performance, while just 10% of Democrats said the same.
The numbers aligns with recent data from Real Clear Polling showing Trump with a 52.5% disapproval rating — the second-lowest 100-day rating in modern history, beat only by his approval rating in his first term.
Tariffs, recession and inflation are top voter concerns
A large majority of U.S. voters — 82% — are worried about a potential recession under the Trump administration, according to the poll.
Around half of respondents said they were “very concerned,” while 32% reported being somewhat concerned. Just 4% said they were “not at all concerned.”
Economic issues dominated America’s perspectives on Trump’s first 100 days in office, with 91% at least somewhat concerned by inflation. A majority, 59%, said inflation is the biggest problem the United States currently faces.
A majority of respondents, 53%, said they think the country is worse off economically than this time a year ago.
While 27% said the American economy is in a better place in 2025, 20% said the economy is “neither better nor worse off.”
Opinions on Trump’s tariff strategy showed concern over the administration’s foreign trade tactics. A majority, 64%, said tariffs hurt consumers and raise prices, while 36% said the levies protect American jobs.
When given the choice between “short-term economic pain” from tariffs and avoiding “policies that harm people now,” 58% of respondents chose the latter. Respondents showed a preference for addressing problems at home rather than trying to gain independence from China.
Immigration remains top Trump issue
While overall opinion on the economy is underwater, respondents were more positive regarding Trump’s handling of immigration policy and the border.
About 39% said Trump is handling immigration “better than expected” so far, beating out the 37% who said the president is handling it worse than anticipated.
Respondents were evenly split between prioritizing deportations (49%) and ensuring legal due process for immigrants (51%).
Regarding the cancellation of student visas for international student protestors like Mahmoud Khalil, 64% said that participating in a protest — “even one that involves civil disobedience” — is not enough to cancel a visa.
American voters divided on Ukraine war
Just over half of respondents indicated they would continue to support Ukraine’s attempts to recapture territory from Russia, even if it prolongs the war.
Conversely, 49% expressed wanting to “end the war as quickly as possible” and were fine with Ukraine conceding territory.
