CNN polling analyst Harry Enten expressed confusion when Brianna Keilar revealed that President Donald Trump planned to emphasize his controversial tariffs during his upcoming address before Congress. Recent polling data shows that 52% of Americans disapprove of Trump’s performance in office, while only 48% approve. A senior adviser indicated that the president intends to highlight his tariff policies during the speech.
Enten pointed out that Trump’s economic approval rating is among the worst on record. ‘He is at the lowest point of any president going into their first address before Congress,’ Enten said, noting that the average president entering this stage has a +27 point advantage. Trump currently sits at -4 points.
Public opposition to Trump’s tariffs is significant. Sixty-four percent of Americans oppose tariffs on Canada, and 59% disapprove of those imposed on Mexico. These numbers further complicate Trump’s economic narrative.
Enten also highlighted a disconnect between public expectations and perceptions of Trump’s priorities. While 82% of Americans believe the economy should be his top focus, only 36% believe he is actually prioritizing it. ‘This is a massive problem,’ Enten said, emphasizing that Trump’s current trajectory suggests little room for improvement.
The analyst concluded by expressing skepticism about Trump’s ability to turn things around with his tariff-focused strategy. With record-low approval ratings and widespread opposition to his trade policies, the coming address could be a pivotal moment in his administration.