WASHINGTON – Public approval of President Donald Trump has dropped to its lowest point since his return to the White House, amid growing concerns among Americans about his efforts to expand executive power.

As reported by Reuters on Monday (April 21), only 42% of respondents expressed approval of Trump’s performance as president. This figure is down from 43% three weeks earlier and 47% shortly after his inauguration on January 20.

Trump’s current term has been marked by controversial actions, including the signing of dozens of executive orders that have increased his control over government agencies and private institutions, such as universities and law firms. These moves have surprised many, including his political opponents.

Although his approval rating remains higher than that of most Democratic presidents during their terms, the poll highlights public discomfort with Trump’s actions, which are perceived as overstepping boundaries.

For instance, his decision to punish universities he deemed too liberal and his appointment of himself as chairman of the Kennedy Center, a major arts and cultural institution in Washington, have drawn criticism.

The survey, which involved over 4,300 respondents, also revealed that 83% of Americans believe the president should comply with federal court rulings, even if he disagrees with them.

This comes amid reports that Trump administration officials may face contempt of court charges for defying a federal order halting the deportation of Venezuelan gang members without due process.

Meanwhile, 57% of respondents, including one-third of Republican supporters, disagreed with the idea that the president should withhold funds from universities whose management he disapproves of.

Trump has frozen significant federal funds for various universities, including over $2 billion for Harvard University, citing their failure to address antisemitism.

Public opposition also extends to Trump’s influence over cultural institutions. 66% of respondents stated that the president should not have control over national cultural institutions, such as museums and theaters. Last month, Trump ordered the Smithsonian Institution to remove ideological content deemed “inappropriate.”

Across all issues raised in the poll—ranging from inflation, immigration, taxation, to the rule of law—the majority of Americans expressed dissatisfaction with Trump’s performance. Even on immigration, one of his strongest areas, only 45% approved, while 46% disapproved.

59% of respondents, including one-third of Republican voters, believe the United States has lost credibility internationally.

Most strikingly, three out of four respondents stated that Trump should not run for a third term. Although the US Constitution clearly prohibits presidents from serving more than two terms, Trump has expressed his intention to run again. Even among Republican supporters, a majority—53%—opposed the idea. (DK/LM)