President-elect Donald Trump is experiencing a surge in popularity, according to leading pollster Harry Enten. However, his favorability rating still falls short compared to Joe Biden’s.
Why It Matters
Trump’s rising popularity could enable him to pass his legislative agenda more easily if Republicans unite behind him. His agenda includes mass deportations, reversing environmental protections, and imposing higher tariffs on countries like China, Mexico, and Canada, which could have significant economic repercussions.
This could also strengthen the chances of another MAGA-style candidate emerging as the GOP nominee for the next presidential election, further entrenching Trump’s populist and nationalist vision for the party. This development could widen the ideological rift within the GOP, pushing more traditional conservatives aside and amplifying partisan tensions in the national political landscape.
What To Know
Enten reports that Trump’s net favorability currently stands at -1, up from -20 in January 2021. Trump’s approval rating has hovered around -1 in recent days, according to 538, with the current standing at -0.3. While still lower than Biden's net rating of +23 in January 2021, Trump is now more popular than he has been in years.
At this time last year, Trump’s net favorability was -17, and just before the 2024 election, it was -8.6. His increased popularity is a reflection of his growing influence within the Republican Party. Enten noted that of the 17 GOP members who voted to impeach Trump, only five remain in Congress post-election—two in the House and three in the Senate.
Trump's 2024 election win has solidified his control over the White House, the House, and the Senate. “This is Donald Trump’s Republican Party,” Enten stated.
Trump’s influence within the party was further demonstrated when House Speaker Mike Johnson was reelected after securing Trump’s endorsement. Trump’s support was crucial in securing the votes of GOP members like Representatives Ralph Norman and Keith Self, who switched their votes in his favor after discussions with the president-elect.
Much of Johnson’s earlier support had waned following criticism of some of his decisions, such as his stance on Ukraine and spending negotiations with Elon Musk.
"My sole focus was advancing the Trump agenda," said Self, emphasizing fiscal responsibility and budget issues. "After receiving firm assurances from the Speaker, I changed my initial vote," he added on X (formerly Twitter).
This week, several GOP allies also backed Trump’s controversial ideas, such as taking control of Greenland, the Panama Canal, and making Canada the 51st state.
Can Trump Pass His Agenda Through Congress?
Despite Trump's strong grip on his party, he may face challenges pushing through his full agenda due to the GOP's slim majority in the House. Republicans hold a 219-215 majority, but this could shrink further. The resignation of Rep. Matt Gaetz leaves a vacant seat, and with Republicans like Mike Waltz and Elise Stefanik poised for other roles, their departure could reduce GOP seats, potentially requiring Democratic support for legislation.
Trump’s push for a unified legislative effort continues, although he recently expressed flexibility regarding whether his agenda should be passed in one or two bills. “One bill, two bills—doesn’t matter to me,” Trump stated, reaffirming that the end result remains unchanged.
Speaker Johnson has called for extended work hours, hoping to have Trump’s agenda ready by the end of April. “It’s going to be a tough season, but it will be worth it,” Johnson assured GOP members.
What People Are Saying
Enten commented that Trump’s popularity is higher than it has been in the past, and political analyst Andrew David noted that Trump’s popularity is partly due to the "honeymoon period" new presidents often enjoy. David also cautioned that Trump's popularity may not last, citing the challenges presidents face after their initial term.
Presidential historian Laura Smith explained that Trump’s influence on the GOP has been nearly unbroken since 2016, and despite potential challenges, Republicans are unlikely to question his authority while he maintains control over the federal government.
Smith highlighted that a major crisis during Trump’s second term could either unite the country or expose weaknesses in his leadership.
What Happens Next
Trump’s second term will begin with his inauguration on January 20, and he will soon begin working to implement his agenda.
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