President Trump’s return to the White House has been anything but quiet, and a new poll shows Americans are split on his performance. From rolling out a flurry of executive orders to slapping tariffs on imports and even sparring with former friend Elon Musk, Trump’s second term is making headlines. His order for U.S. missile strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, met with Iran’s rocket attack on a U.S. base in Qatar, has only heightened the drama (Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images).
According to an Emerson College poll, 45% of voters approve of Trump, while 46% disapprove, and 9% aren’t sure. This is a slip from his 49% approval in January, showing his bold moves are dividing the nation. The poll also found 52% of Americans feel the country is off track, while 48% think Trump’s leadership is steering it right, painting a picture of a polarized public.
As Trump’s term unfolds, eyes are already on the 2028 presidential race. For Democrats, Pete Buttigieg, the former Transportation Secretary, has surged ahead with 16% support, overtaking Kamala Harris, who sits at 13% after her loss to Trump last year (Alex Wong/Getty Images). With 23% of voters undecided, the Democratic field is still anyone’s game, but Buttigieg’s lead is turning heads.
On the Republican side, Vice President JD Vance is the standout, with 46% backing him for 2028. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has 12% support, and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis trails with 9%, while 17% of Republicans remain undecided. Since Trump can’t run again due to constitutional limits, the GOP is looking for its next star.
This poll captures a nation at a crossroads, with Trump’s leadership sparking strong reactions and new names rising for 2028. Buttigieg’s unexpected edge and Vance’s strong support hint at an exciting race ahead. As America navigates these changes, voters are already imagining who might lead next, making this a story worth watching.
