A record percentage of Americans approve of President Donald Trump’s performance less than three weeks into his second term, according to a new CBS News/YouGov survey.
Despite opposition from Democrats regarding some of Trump’s Cabinet picks and the newly established Department of Government Efficiency—tasked with streamlining operations and cutting spending—53% of U.S. adults say they approve of the president’s job performance.
This marks the highest approval rating Trump has received in CBS News polling. Meanwhile, 47% of respondents disapprove.
The survey also revealed that 51% of Americans believe Elon Musk and DOGE should have at least some influence over government operations and spending, with 23% saying DOGE should play a major role.
National Security and Border Control
Trump’s efforts to tighten border security and address the ongoing migrant crisis—an issue that intensified under former President Joe Biden—garner significant support. The poll found that 59% approve of Trump’s handling of national security, while 41% disapprove.
Additionally, 64% of respondents back the deployment of U.S. troops to the southern border to prevent illegal crossings, compared to 36% who oppose the measure. In response to Trump’s executive order on immigration enforcement, the Pentagon recently confirmed the deployment of approximately 1,500 troops to the border.
Americans remain divided on the idea of large detention centers for migrants, with 48% in favor and 52% opposed. However, among Trump’s 2024 voters, support for such centers is significantly higher.
Foreign Policy and the Israel-Hamas Conflict
Trump’s approach to the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza is met with mixed reactions—54% of Americans approve of his handling of the crisis, while 46% disapprove.
Regarding Trump’s suggestion that the U.S. take control of Gaza, only 13% see it as a good idea, whereas 47% oppose it, and 40% remain uncertain.
Public Perception of Trump
When asked to describe Trump, respondents’ top four choices were:
- "Tough" (69%)
- "Energetic" (63%)
- "Focused" (60%)
- "Effective" (58%)
Furthermore, 70% of Americans believe Trump is fulfilling his campaign promises, while 30% say his actions in office differ from what he pledged.
Economic Concerns and Trade Policy
While many Americans approve of Trump’s overall leadership, 66% believe he is not prioritizing efforts to lower prices. Although the public largely supports tariffs on Chinese imports, a majority oppose tariffs on goods from Mexico, Europe, and Canada.
Survey Methodology
The CBS News/YouGov survey was conducted from February 5-7 among 2,175 U.S. adults. The sample was designed to be representative of the national population based on gender, age, race, and education, using data from the U.S. Census American Community Survey and the Current Population Survey. The poll has a margin of error of ±2.5 percentage points.