As President Trump hits the 100-day mark in office, new polling data and media reports paint a mixed, and often negative, picture of his presidency. Over the weekend, four major news outlets released fresh polling data that highlights slipping approval ratings, deepening divides among voters, and rising tension between Trump and the media.
Sinking Approval Ratings
CNN, NBC, The New York Times, and The Washington Post/ABC polls all indicate a noticeable slide in Trump’s approval rating. According to CNN’s Jennifer Agiesta, Trump’s approval has dropped 4 points since March, and it’s now 7 points lower than it was in late February. NBC also found that Trump’s detractors are now more fervent than his supporters. In fact, the intensity of disapproval outweighs the intensity of support, with twice as many Americans “strongly disapproving” of his leadership as those who “strongly approve.”
Trump’s Counterattack
Unsurprisingly, Trump took to Truth Social to attack these findings. In his usual combative style, he accused the pollsters of engaging in “election fraud,” including outlets like The New York Times and The Washington Post/ABC. His ire even extended to Fox News, a long-time ally, after they dared to briefly highlight his waning approval ratings. This isn’t the first time Trump has targeted media outlets over polling numbers, and it likely won’t be the last.
Trump’s anger toward pollsters has already led him to file lawsuits, including one against pollster Ann Selzer, who is fighting back in court. Despite his vocal criticism, Trump’s public statements about not seeking revenge were questioned by reporters from The Atlantic. Trump, however, insisted that while he prefers focusing on making America great again, others in his administration are motivated by a desire for retribution.
MAGA Base Stands Firm
The CBS poll showed that Trump’s core supporters—self-identified “MAGA Republicans”—remain steadfast in their beliefs. Interestingly, CBS found that MAGA Republicans prioritize immigration over economic issues, viewing the current state of the U.S. economy more favorably than the general public. While most Americans feel the economy is worsening, MAGA voters are more optimistic, rating the economy far better than others. Additionally, MAGA Republicans are more inclined to support policies such as the detention of legal residents.
Trump’s Media Tour and Press Dynamics
Trump is also making the rounds with the media, likely as part of a larger strategy to frame his narrative as he reaches the 100-day milestone. Trump’s interviews include a sit-down with The Atlantic, an ABC special interview airing Tuesday, and an appearance on NewsNation with Chris Cuomo. These appearances are seen by some as an attempt to assert control over his image amid negative polling.
On the other hand, Trump’s relationship with the media is fraught with tension. CBS’s 60 Minutes made headlines with a striking on-air comment from anchor Scott Pelley, who rebuked parent company Paramount for increasing supervision over content. Pelley also hinted that Bill Owens, the former 60 Minutes producer, was under pressure to soften coverage of Trump. Such revelations raise concerns about the independence of traditional media and its ability to hold power to account.
Legacy Media and the Substack Surge
The Correspondents’ Dinner over the weekend also reflected broader changes in the media landscape. While legacy media outlets like CBS and The New York Times face increasing scrutiny, emerging platforms like Substack are gaining traction. At the dinner, reporters reflected on the media’s role in shaping public trust. Axios reporter Alex Thompson acknowledged that mistakes in reporting can erode faith in journalism, urging colleagues to be more transparent about their errors.
With this shift in the media environment, there is growing interest in newer forms of journalism that prioritize independence over traditional corporate interests. The rise of independent platforms like Substack may signify a turning point in how Americans consume news and hold their leaders accountable.
Public Media on Edge
In another sign of the growing political divide, PBS and NPR are bracing for a potential defunding proposal from the White House. The proposal, which could be formally sent to Congress soon, would start a 45-day countdown for lawmakers to take action. This has prompted public media outlets to increase lobbying efforts to protect their funding. Whether Republican senators will reject the proposal remains uncertain, but the threat looms large.
A Broader Battle Over Truth and Trust
As the media, polling, and political spheres intersect during Trump’s 100th day, it’s clear that the battle for the truth and public trust is intensifying. From lawsuits and media pressure to shifting public perceptions, Trump’s presidency continues to provoke deep divides. In the end, his 100-day mark may be more about the ongoing struggle for control over the American narrative than any legislative achievements.
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