Staff Reports
A recent Monmouth University poll shows that more than half of Americans harbors a sense of optimism about President Trump’s second term, though some may be feeling a bit anxious about the impact of his policies on their families. It seems that Trump’s supporters are sprouting a green-thumbed enthusiasm like dandelions in a well-fertilized lawn, reflecting a notable increase in backing among Republicans compared to his first term back in 2017.
Among the findings, 53% of the American public expressed optimism for Trump’s proposed policies. This is a far cry from those grim days prior to the kickoff of his first term when Republicans were just slightly less cheerful at 53%. Now, a whopping 76% of Republicans are buzzing with excitement at the prospect of Trump fulfilling his promises. Sounds like the folks on the right are ready to kick some legislative butt and take names!
Americans are optimistic about Trump’s second term, poll showshttps://t.co/3adxlILJZ3 pic.twitter.com/NwIXyAV1xr
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) December 19, 2024
With a staggering 66% of respondents signaling approval for Trump’s tax plan on tips, overtime, and Social Security, it becomes clear that his policies resonate with the everyday worker. Meanwhile, just under half are warm to the idea of mass deportations of illegal immigrants, while opinions remain split on tariffs, with 42% in favor and 40% against. When it comes to the more controversial diversity and equity programs in the federal sphere, only 36% of Americans are in agreement to ditch them, reflecting the difficulty in tearing down governmental sacred cows.
The shadows of partisanship loom large over this poll, as explained by the director of Monmouth Polling. The big questions on many minds center around how Trump’s proposed policies will materially affect American families, particularly those who carried him to victory in the 2024 election. Whether this optimism translates to tangible financial relief—or just further political warfare—remains to be seen.
Tariffs on imported goods and ending taxes on certain types of income seem to be high on the worry meter for many. A notable 72% of folks are concerned about the implications of tariffs, while 64% think dropping certain taxes could be beneficial. However, nearly half of respondents are bracing for the worst, with 47% concerned that tariffs may hit their wallets hard. It seems Trump’s ardent promise to tax goods from China, Canada, and Mexico has some folks feeling nervous instead of giddy.
Interestingly, while 36% believe the middle class stands to gain significantly from Trump’s proposed policies, a chunk of the opposition—namely 76% of Democrats and a hefty portion of independents—maintain that poor families won’t see any silver lining. Meanwhile, Democrats predictably believe the wealthy will benefit, while less than half of Republicans concur. One thing’s for sure: the thermometer of political sentiment is running hot, and the pot won’t stop boiling until Trump’s second term really gets underway.
