A recent national poll conducted by the University of Massachusetts reveals widespread skepticism among Americans regarding President Donald Trump’s economic strategies, particularly his implementation of tariffs. The survey indicates that 73 percent of voters anticipate that these tariffs will lead to increased prices for goods and services. Many participants have rated the economy under Trump’s administration as either “fair” or “poor.”
The findings reflect a broader discontent with the current administration’s policies, with a significant majority expressing the belief that the nation is on the wrong track. The study, carried out by researchers at the Amherst campus, suggests that Trump’s handling of the economy during his initial 100 days in office has not met public expectations. Despite his campaign promises of economic prosperity, there is little evidence of the promised economic improvement.
The poll, conducted between April 9 and April 12 and involving 1,000 respondents nationwide, highlights diminishing confidence in the economy. Only 30 percent of men and 21 percent of women rated the economy as “excellent” or “good,” with the majority describing it as “fair” or “poor.” This marks a decline from a previous survey under President Joe Biden in October 2024, which reported slightly higher satisfaction rates.
Nonwhite voters, including Black and Latino respondents, expressed even greater dissatisfaction. Among these groups, 67 percent of Black voters and 59 percent of Latinos believe the country is heading in the wrong direction. This dissatisfaction raises questions about future political support for Trump within these communities.
The survey indicates that 35 percent of respondents are satisfied with Trump’s overall performance, while 54 percent are not, and 11 percent remain uncertain. The approach of using tariffs to boost domestic manufacturing is largely unpopular, as 73 percent of those surveyed feel that tariffs will increase consumer prices. However, 41 percent believe tariffs might positively impact manufacturing, though the enthusiasm for working in these industries remains low.
Most Americans, as noted in the survey, are uneasy with Trump’s use of presidential power. A significant 70 percent view his actions to punish political opponents and enrich himself and affiliates as abnormal. Concerns extend to perceived threats to constitutional integrity, with 59 percent of respondents stating America’s foundational principles are not functioning well. A partisan divide is evident, notably regarding impeachment in cases where the president defies Supreme Court rulings, with 87 percent of Democrats supporting impeachment compared to only 27 percent of Republicans.
