Damage assessment

President Donald Trump's approval ratings have plummeted to their lowest point, with a recent Economist/YouGov poll revealing 62 percent of Americans disapprove of his performance. The survey also indicated that 63 percent of the public feels the country is headed in the wrong direction, marking Trump's worst figures since his return to the White House last year. These numbers align with other polls showing a decline in public favor.

The dissatisfaction stems from multiple factors, including the ongoing conflict with Iran and the president's management of the economy. The first 18 months of Trump's second term have been characterized by significant domestic and international disruption. His "America First" approach has led to unilateral military actions in several countries and has destabilized the global trading system.

This policy direction reflects a disregard for international law and the sovereignty of other nations. Ironically, a president who promised to end wars appears to have expanded American military engagement abroad. Trump's tenure has been marked by a departure from established norms, impacting both domestic sentiment and international relations.