President Donald Trump’s approval rating has experienced a significant decline among rural Americans, a demographic that has been a cornerstone of his political support.
Recent polls indicate that only 46% of rural voters currently approve of his job performance, a notable drop from the 66% who supported him in the November election.
This shift suggests growing dissatisfaction within a constituency that was once firmly in his corner.
Highlights
- Rural Approval Drops Sharply: Donald Trump’s approval rating among rural Americans has dropped from 66% post-election to just 46% in early 2025.
- Economic Downturn: A 0.3% contraction in the U.S. economy and collapsing consumer confidence have hit rural communities hard.
- Tariff Fallout: Aggressive tariffs have disrupted agriculture and manufacturing—industries crucial to rural economies.
- Cuts to Rural Programs: Reductions in Medicaid and agricultural support have led to concerns about healthcare and farm sustainability.
- Labor Shortages: Immigration crackdowns have caused severe labor shortages in rural industries reliant on migrant workers.
- Border Communities Grow Wary: Texas border counties show growing skepticism over Trump’s tariff threats and economic impact.
- National Approval at Record Low: Trump’s overall national approval has sunk to 39%—the lowest for a sitting president at the 100-day mark.
Economic Concerns Erode Support
A primary factor contributing to this decline is the economic impact of Trump’s policies. His aggressive tariff strategies have disrupted supply chains and led to increased costs for consumers and businesses alike.
The U.S. economy contracted by 0.3% in the first quarter of 2025, and consumer confidence has plummeted to levels not seen since 1990. These developments have particularly affected rural communities, where industries such as agriculture and manufacturing are sensitive to trade policies.
Policy Decisions Affecting Rural Communities
Beyond economic issues, specific policy decisions have also alienated rural voters. Cuts to programs vital for rural development, environmental protections, and healthcare services have raised concerns.
For instance, reductions in Medicaid funding threaten the viability of rural hospitals, and decreased support for agricultural programs undermines the livelihoods of farmers.
Additionally, immigration crackdowns have led to labor shortages in sectors that rely heavily on immigrant workers.
Mixed Reactions Along the Texas Border
In Texas border counties, which shifted toward Trump in the 2024 election, sentiments are becoming more ambivalent.
While some residents appreciate the administration’s focus on border security, there is growing unease about the economic repercussions of threatened tariffs on Mexican imports. Local leaders express concern that such measures could harm cross-border trade and the regional economy
National Approval Ratings Reflect Broader Challenges
Nationally, Trump’s approval rating has fallen to 39%, the lowest for any president at the 100-day mark in modern history. This decline is attributed to various factors, including economic downturns, controversial policy decisions, and administrative upheavals.
The administration’s handling of foreign policy and internal governance has faced criticism, further eroding public confidence.
Conclusion
The erosion of support among rural Americans signals a significant challenge for President Trump. As economic and policy concerns mount, maintaining the loyalty of this key demographic will require addressing the specific issues affecting their communities. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the administration can reverse these trends and rebuild trust among rural voters.