President Donald Trump’s approval rating has surged to near-record highs, with a recent poll showing a significant boost in support despite mounting criticism from Democrats, establishment Republicans, and the media over his ambitious trade reforms. According to a fresh survey conducted by J.L. Partners in collaboration with the Daily Mail, Trump’s approval reached 53%, marking a notable four-point jump from the previous week’s 49%. The poll, which canvassed 1,000 registered voters between March 31 and April 3, revealed a surge in Trump’s popularity even amid a volatile stock market and ongoing trade tensions.
The Daily Mail called this rise in approval “surprising,” especially considering the fierce backlash Trump faced regarding his tariff policies and the subsequent market fluctuations. Yet, despite these challenges, Trump’s favorability has strengthened, particularly among key voting groups. His approval among younger voters (ages 18-29) saw a remarkable 13-point increase since March 7, signaling a potential shift in the political landscape. This rebound is especially significant given that this age group heavily supported Joe Biden in the 2020 election.
The poll also highlights Trump’s broadening support base, showing a six-point approval boost among registered Democrats and independents. Even more striking, Trump saw a 17-point surge in favorability among Black voters, suggesting that his policies are beginning to resonate with communities that were once more critical of his administration.
Economic Optimism: Trump’s Focus on Jobs and Growth
As Trump nears the 100-day mark of his presidency, American employers and small business owners are largely giving him positive marks. Many in the business community have expressed growing optimism about the future of the U.S. economy, despite the ongoing recovery process. “I would give President Trump a solid B+ right now,” said TaChelle Lawson, founder of FIG Strategy & Consulting. She credited Trump’s clear focus on economics and business for the strong support from the business sector.
Lawson, speaking on behalf of a survey of 50,000 small business owners, emphasized that Trump’s efforts to reduce bureaucracy and prioritize American business have garnered significant respect. While the economic direction is solid, she noted that “the messaging could use a bit of work.” Nevertheless, survey data reflects a stark shift in economic sentiment, with over two-thirds of small business owners now anticipating either “slow” or “robust” growth, a sharp contrast to earlier, more negative projections.
Small Business and Regulatory Reform
Small business owners are particularly enthusiastic about Trump’s push to reduce overregulation and cut through bureaucratic red tape that has long hindered growth. “We have a very sick economy right now, and it needs strong medicine,” said Andrew Crapuchettes, CEO of RedBalloon. “If it gets that medicine, we all feel like we’ll have a very strong economy that will not only thrive but be a blessing to the entire world.”
Michael Seifert, CEO of PublicSquare, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the positive response from small business owners as Trump approaches his 100-day mark. “Small businesses are especially excited about how President Trump and his administration are tackling the overregulation that stifles growth,” Seifert said.
Trade Relations: Progress with Vietnam and Tariffs
Trump’s trade policy has also been in the spotlight, particularly his ongoing negotiations with international leaders. On Friday, Trump shared news of a productive call with Vietnamese leader To Lam, who expressed interest in reducing tariffs to zero in exchange for a new trade deal with the U.S. “Just had a very productive call with To Lam, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, who told me that Vietnam wants to cut their tariffs down to ZERO if we can make an agreement with the U.S. I look forward to a meeting soon,” Trump tweeted.
The news sent shares of companies relying on Vietnamese manufacturing, like Nike, soaring by more than 4%, as the market responded positively to the potential easing of trade tensions. Earlier in the week, the Trump administration had imposed a 46% tariff on goods from Vietnam, and this new development points to the possibility of negotiations that could alleviate pressure on U.S. businesses.
The Broader Economic Landscape: Navigating the Trade War
While Trump’s trade policies, particularly the imposition of tariffs on various countries, have sparked controversy, the president remains steadfast in defending his approach as necessary to protect American industries and workers. The ongoing trade war with countries like China and Vietnam is a key element of Trump’s “America First” trade policy, designed to reduce the U.S. trade deficit and bring manufacturing jobs back to the U.S.
Despite the economic uncertainties caused by the tariffs, the latest poll indicates broad support for Trump’s policies. His approval has risen among voters aged 18-29, and his favorability among Democrats and independents is growing, signaling his success in appealing to a wider array of voters. Furthermore, positive feedback from small business owners highlights Trump’s success in reaching new constituencies, even as his trade policies remain contentious.
Looking Ahead: Economic Growth and Global Trade
As Trump enters the second quarter of his presidency, his focus on economic growth and international trade remains at the forefront of his agenda. With strong backing from business leaders and a growing shift in public opinion, Trump is well-positioned to pursue further trade negotiations and regulatory reforms aimed at strengthening the U.S. economy.
The administration’s focus on reducing corporate taxes, cutting regulatory burdens, and addressing trade imbalances signals a continued push for policies that favor American business growth. While challenges remain, particularly with ongoing trade disputes and market volatility, Trump’s presidency has been marked by significant economic momentum, especially among small businesses and key voter demographics.
As trade negotiations continue, Trump’s leadership on the global stage will play a pivotal role in shaping U.S. economic policy, positioning him to drive future growth and solidify his legacy as a champion of American industry.
