President Trump’s second term is off to a stormy start, and a new poll shows Americans are feeling the turbulence. From issuing a wave of executive orders to launching tariffs and publicly feuding with Elon Musk, Trump’s actions are keeping the nation on edge. His recent order for missile strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, followed by Iran’s retaliatory attack on a U.S. base in Qatar, has only added fuel to the fire (Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images).
The Emerson College poll reveals Trump’s approval rating at 45%, down from 49% in January, with 46% disapproving and 9% undecided. This dip suggests his bold moves aren’t winning everyone over. The survey also shows 52% of voters think the U.S. is heading in the wrong direction, while 48% believe Trump’s leadership is on the right track, highlighting a deeply divided public.
With 2028 on the horizon, the poll offers a peek at who might run for president next. For Democrats, Pete Buttigieg, former Transportation Secretary, has pulled ahead with 16% support, surpassing Kamala Harris at 13%, who faced Trump in the last election (Alex Wong/Getty Images). Nearly a quarter of respondents are undecided, signaling an open race for the Democratic nomination.
Republicans, meanwhile, strongly favor Vice President JD Vance, with 46% backing him for 2028. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has 12% support, and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has 9%, with 17% of GOP voters still unsure. Since Trump is barred from a third term by the Constitution, the GOP is searching for its next leader.
This poll paints a vivid picture of a nation grappling with Trump’s leadership while looking to the future. Buttigieg’s rise and Vance’s dominance suggest 2028 could bring fresh faces to the forefront. As voters weigh their options, these early numbers offer a compelling glimpse into what’s next for American politics.
