Trump's Government Management Approval Plummets Amid Shutdown Crisis

Wed Nov 12 2025 20:18:19 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

According to a recent AP-NORC poll, President Donald Trump's approval ratings regarding his management of the government have dropped significantly, particularly among Republicans and independents, as a government shutdown lingers.

A recent AP-NORC poll reveals that President Trump’s approval rating for managing the government has dropped to 33%, down from 43% earlier this year, with discontent mainly from Republicans. The ongoing government shutdown has exacerbated dissatisfaction, as air traffic is disrupted and federal workers face financial hardships. The poll highlights a growing divide among Republicans, with the approval rating among them falling from 81% to 68%. Democrats maintain overwhelmingly negative views, with 95% disapproving. While Trump's overall approval remains steady at 36%, the survey indicates potential long-term implications for his presidency amid criticisms of his governance and agency management.

WASHINGTON (AP) — A new AP-NORC poll shows a sharp decline in approval for President Donald Trump's management of the government, now at 33%, down from 43% earlier this year. Much of this discontent stems from within the Republican Party, as support from Republicans has dropped significantly.

The survey, conducted after Democrats' recent wins in off-year elections but before Congress took steps to end the longest shutdown in U.S. history, revealed that only around 68% of Republicans approve of Trump's management, down from 81% in March. Approval from independents also took a hit, decreasing from 38% to 25%.

The effects of the shutdown are clear as it disrupts air traffic and leaves numerous federal workers unpaid, which has led to widespread criticism of both parties. Despite Trump's efforts to blame Democrats, public opinion indicates that many Americans view this situation as a shared responsibility.

While Democrats overwhelmingly disapprove of Trump’s handling of the government (95% disapproval), there remains some steadfast support for the president among a segment of Republicans. Those voicing concerns express feelings of disturbance over the toll the shutdown has taken, with some likening Trump's leadership style to that of a 'petulant child.'

Despite these declines regarding government approval, Trump's overall approval rating holds steady at about 36%. As cutbacks and layoffs continue to shape the federal landscape, many Americans remain concerned about key issues such as health care and the economy, amidst the ongoing turmoil stemming from political maneuvering related to the shutdown.

The poll conducted from Nov. 6-10 surveyed 1,143 adults, drawing on a sample representative of the U.S. population.