Nournews: Tough policies in the fields of migration, the return of the tariff war with China, and unilateral actions in foreign policy have weakened public trust. The legacy of the economic and diplomatic crises of Biden’s administration has contributed to this dissatisfaction, making the challenges facing the White House more complex.
The results of the most recent poll by the American institute Morning Consult show that only 29 percent of the people in the United States believe their country is moving in the right direction, while 61 percent think that the U.S. has been placed on the wrong path.
These figures are significantly similar to the results of polls in 2017, during Trump’s first term. However, the current situation is somewhat different. In his second term, Trump is facing certain challenges that are the legacies of Biden’s administration policies. However, his recent actions have contributed to the increase in public dissatisfaction.
Trump’s foreign policy; from Gaza to Ukraine
By adopting unilateral policies in the international field, Trump has once again caused concerns inside and outside of the United States.
His explicit stance regarding the forced displacement of Palestinians residing in Gaza and all-out support for Israel has intensified domestic disparities in the U.S. and provoked reactions from many Arab nations, including human rights groups. In the case of Iran, Trump, with his executive command regarding the return of “maximum pressure policies” against Iran, has not only worsened tensions in West Asia but also caused concerns among the U.S. allies.
Given Iran’s constructive role in global energy markets, adopting tough policies on selling Iran’s oil could have unpredictable impacts on the global energy markets while increasing security tensions in the region.
Also, in the case of the Ukraine war, Trump’s administration has once again taken a unilateral approach, and in recent negotiations with Russia at the Riyadh Summit, has been pursuing a direct agreement with Moscow, dismissing Europe and even Ukraine itself.
This policy, as well as causing concern for its European allies, has provoked harsh reactions in the U.S. Congress, where they have described it as a sign that America’s leadership in the world has weakened.
Economy and migration, two dimensions of domestic disparity
Trump’s economic policies in returning to the tariff war, particularly against China, have contributed to concerns about the intensification of inflation and economic recession.
The experience from his first term of presidency shows that such policies can lead to an increase in the heavy costs of living and a reduction in economic growth.
Recent data shows that the annual inflation rate in January 2025 reached 5.2 percent, which is higher than the average figure of the last 10 years. In addition to this, his tough policies against migration, such as accelerating mass deportations and new restrictions on visa donations, have caused domestic protests and reduced the support of minorities for the government. In a poll conducted by Quinnipiac University, 65 percent of Latino voters evaluated the migration policies of Trump’s administration as unjust.
Legacy of Biden and remaining crises
Although many policies of Trump’s administration have reduced public trust, one must not dismiss the role of the Biden administration’s legacy in forming such a negative environment. The increase in the inflation rate, failure of energy policies, and irresponsible actions in foreign policies were among the issues that formed public distrust.
In addition to that, the Ukraine war, which started during Biden’s presidency, along with his endless support for Kyiv, caused an increase in the costs for the U.S. and public dissatisfaction. A Pew poll shows that 54 percent of American voters see Washington’s financial support for Ukraine as unnecessary.
Future outlook; How Trump can attract public satisfaction?
Trump is at the beginning of his second term and still has the opportunity to reform his policies. One of the key solutions to attract public satisfaction is reducing international tensions and adopting an approach based on cooperation and engagement.
Also, in the economic field, avoiding the tariff war and focusing on reducing living costs can reduce some of the public dissatisfaction. Unless this downward trend of public satisfaction is addressed, it could lead to an expanded political and social crisis.
Polls show Americans are still worried about the future of their country. If Trump cannot make noticeable changes in his policies, he may face more complex political challenges in the coming years.
NOURNEWS