A new CNN/SSRS poll reveals that a majority of Americans are broadly dissatisfied with the state of the country and the economy, with President Donald Trump’s approval rating falling to a new low for his second term. The survey, conducted in late October 2025, highlights deep public discontent as the nation grapples with economic challenges and a prolonged government shutdown.
The poll found that 68% of respondents believe things are going badly in the United States, the highest level of dissatisfaction since January 2025. This sentiment is driven by concerns over the economy, with 71% rating current economic conditions as “poor” or “very poor.” Economic issues were identified as the most important facing the country by 47% of those surveyed, underscoring the central role of financial well-being in public opinion. The findings reflect a growing unease that spans demographic and political lines, suggesting a broad-based decline in national confidence.
President Trump’s approval rating dropped to 37%, with disapproval at 63%, marking the lowest approval of his second term in CNN polling. This represents a 5-point decline from July 2025, when his approval stood at 42%. The numbers indicate a significant erosion of support, with the president’s handling of the economy drawing particular criticism. Historical comparisons show this is just one point above his 36% rating at a similar point in his first term, highlighting persistent challenges in maintaining public trust.
A majority of 61% said that Trump’s policies have worsened economic conditions, a sharp increase from 51% in March. This growing disapproval is linked to factors such as inflation, the cost of living, and the ongoing government shutdown, which has entered its 34th day. Roughly 80% of poll respondents view the shutdown as a crisis or major problem, and 61% disapprove of Trump’s management of the situation. The stalemate in Washington has exacerbated economic uncertainties, with many Americans feeling the direct impact on services and stability.
The state of American democracy was the second most important issue for 26% of respondents, reflecting broader anxieties about political stability and governance. The poll’s timing, ahead of key off-year elections, suggests that these sentiments could influence voter behavior. Analysts are watching races in states like Virginia and New Jersey as potential bellwethers for the 2026 midterms, where dissatisfaction with the current administration may shape outcomes and party strategies.
Cross-referencing with reports from USA Today and other outlets confirms the consistency of these findings across multiple reliable sources. The widespread dissatisfaction appears to be a robust trend, not an outlier, emphasizing the depth of public unease. Historical data shows that such levels of discontent often precede significant political shifts, indicating that the current climate could lead to changes in leadership or policy directions in the near future.
In conclusion, the poll results underscore a challenging political environment for the Trump administration, with economic concerns and the government shutdown fueling public frustration. As the country moves toward future elections, these dynamics may shape policy responses and electoral outcomes, highlighting the need for addressing core issues to restore confidence. The ongoing shutdown and economic pressures will likely remain focal points in public discourse, influencing both short-term resolutions and long-term political landscapes.