Two-thirds of voters say Trump’s policies worsened economic conditions

Donald Trump enters the final two years of his presidency facing a electorate that has largely rejected his economic stewardship. The AP Voter Poll indicates that approximately two-thirds of national voters believe his policies have worsened U.S. economic conditions. Only about 30 percent said those policies improved the economy.

The survey also measured sentiment on specific trade measures. Roughly two-thirds of respondents stated that Trump’s tariff policies hurt the national economy or their local area. These figures suggest a tangible financial impact on households that voters are weighing as they cast ballots on Tuesday.

Sentiment regarding the president’s personal leadership is similarly negative. More than half of surveyed voters say Trump is not a strong leader. About 60 percent believe he prioritizes his own personal interests over the country’s, compared to 40 percent who think he prioritizes the nation. Voters also expressed doubt about his mental capability to serve effectively.

Trump and his political team made a calculated gamble by centering the campaign on his presence. The strategy aimed to activate base supporters who might not turn out otherwise. Democrats welcomed the approach, arguing it made the president a clear target for blame regarding the state of the economy, which voters identified as their top concern.

Senator Andy Kim of New Jersey noted the personal focus during his fall campaign trips to Iowa, Georgia, and Texas. He observed that voters are thinking about Trump and the direct harm he has caused them. Kim said, "Trump’s desire to have everyone think that he’s on the ballot? Like, it’s happening."

If Republicans retain majorities in Congress, Trump will emerge with a stronger grip on the party. The president spent Tuesday at the White House and planned to watch results in a private reception. He has stated he possesses a "strong veto" and expects to work out deals if legislative fights arise.

A Democratic victory would trigger immediate investigative actions. California Representative Robert Garcia, set to lead the House Oversight Committee if Democrats win, outlined a plan to demand accountability for immigration and detention policies. His agenda includes probing the Trump family’s business dealings and the administration’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein investigation.

House Speaker-elect Hakeem Jeffries signaled intent to target Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth if Democrats gain control. Jeffries said at an October rally, "I’m here to say, one of the first things we’re going to do in the majority, we’re going to run Pete Hegseth out of town."

Trump concluded his campaign efforts at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. He spent much of his hourlong speech detailing plans to beautify Washington, D.C. He told reporters, "So, we have a lot of great things planned for Washington, and I could get into the nation. But for that, you don’t have enough time."