Summary of NPR Politics Podcast Episode: "Poll: Majority Thinks Trump Is Making Changes Too Quickly"

Release Date: March 3, 2025

In this episode of The NPR Politics Podcast, hosts Sarah McCammon, Domenico Montanaro, and Mara Liasson delve into the latest NPR PBS News Marist Poll to assess American public opinion on President Donald Trump's policies. The discussion centers on Trump's approval ratings, economic strategies, foreign policy maneuvers, and the broader implications for the U.S. political landscape.

1. Trump's Approval Rating: A Decline Noted

The episode opens with an analysis of President Trump's current standing among American voters. Domenico Montanaro highlights a significant decline in Trump's approval:

Domenico Montanaro [01:52]: "Trump has a 45% approval rating, which is lower, by the way, than any past president in the last since Gallup has been measuring that number."

This marks the lowest approval rating Trump has received compared to all previous presidents, indicating deepening divisions within the electorate. Mara Liasson adds context by noting:

Mara Liasson [02:22]: "He's still underwater. He's never had a net Positive approval rating as president."

2. Economic Concerns: Rising Prices and Public Expectation

A critical focus of the poll is the American public's perception of the economy, particularly regarding inflation and price increases. Domenico Montanaro shares alarming statistics:

Domenico Montanaro [03:02]: "57% of people expect prices to go up in the next six months, which was the thing that I think is hard to argue is what got Trump in the White House in the first place."

This sentiment reflects voters' ongoing concerns about economic stability, a cornerstone of Trump's campaign promises. Sarah McCammon probes deeper into partisan perspectives:

Sarah McCammon [04:08]: "How does that break down, though, along party lines?"

Domenico Montanaro responds by contrasting Republican optimism with independent apprehension:

Domenico Montanaro [04:54]: "Republicans... Only a small percentage think that prices are going to go up. But the real problem for Trump here is with independents..."

3. Foreign Policy Shifts: Alignments and Realignments

Trump's foreign policy has been notably dramatic, with significant shifts that have raised questions among both supporters and critics. Mara Liasson provides an incisive analysis:

Mara Liasson [03:02]: "He just really likes somebody who's got a lot of power. And he sees this foreign policy, the Trump Doctrine, sort of as something that's more transactional..."

The administration's alignment with nations like Russia and North Korea, juxtaposed against traditional alliances with Western democracies, marks a stark departure from established U.S. foreign policy norms. Domenico Montanaro underscores the potential repercussions:

Domenico Montanaro [11:06]: "Trump has had very warm feelings, things he said very positively about a lot of strong men all over the world and autocratic leaders."

4. The Role of Elon Musk and Doge in Government Reshaping

A surprising element discussed is the influence of high-profile figures like Elon Musk and the impact of cryptocurrencies like Doge on federal government restructuring. Domenico Montanaro reveals low public favorability:

Domenico Montanaro [06:46]: "Only 39% of people have a positive view of Elon Musk and Doge."

This skepticism poses challenges for Trump, who may have considered leveraging Musk and Doge to bolster his administration's initiatives. Mara Liasson reflects on the political ramifications:

Mara Liasson [07:30]: "He is very polarizing and he may turn out voters for Republicans and against them just like Trump did."

5. U.S. Support for Ukraine: A Divided Opinion

The podcast examines American sentiments toward U.S. support for Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia. Domenico Montanaro breaks down the poll results:

Domenico Montanaro [09:09]: "37% said that the US is not giving enough support to Ukraine. 34% think the US is giving Ukraine too much support. Another 28% say the US is giving about the right amount of support."

Combining those favoring increased or adequate support, a substantial 65% advocate for maintaining or enhancing assistance. Mara Liasson connects this stance to Trump's foreign policy challenges:

Mara Liasson [10:59]: "Trump is at very much at odds with American public opinion, even though foreign policy is not something that usually is a top priority for voters."

6. Checks and Balances: Public Doubts on System Functionality

A critical portion of the poll assesses Americans' trust in the nation's system of checks and balances. A majority express skepticism:

Domenico Montanaro [12:54]: "56% said that they don't think that the system of checks and balances is working effectively."

The breakdown reveals stark partisan divides, with Democrats and independents overwhelmingly disagreeing, while a significant majority of Republicans support the system as it stands. Mara Liasson elaborates on the implications:

Mara Liasson [13:25]: "Trump and his supporters are talking about impeaching judges."

This sentiment reflects growing concerns about the concentration of power and the undermining of institutional checks designed to prevent authoritarianism.

7. Looking Ahead: Implications for Future Elections

As the episode wraps up, the hosts contemplate the future political landscape. Domenico Montanaro warns of potential challenges for Republicans:

Domenico Montanaro [06:11]: "If independents continue to overwhelmingly disapprove... that could spell real trouble for Republicans, especially in the House."

With midterm elections on the horizon, the administration's policies and public perception could significantly influence electoral outcomes.

Conclusion

This episode of The NPR Politics Podcast provides a comprehensive analysis of the current political climate surrounding President Trump's administration. From declining approval ratings and economic anxieties to controversial foreign policy shifts and doubts about governmental checks and balances, the discussion underscores the complexities and challenges facing the administration. As the nation approaches pivotal elections, these insights offer a valuable lens through which to understand the evolving dynamics of American politics.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Domenico Montanaro [01:52]: "Trump has a 45% approval rating, which is lower...than any past president..."

• Mara Liasson [02:22]: "He's still underwater. He's never had a net Positive approval rating as president."

• Domenico Montanaro [03:02]: "57% of people expect prices to go up in the next six months..."

• Domenico Montanaro [06:46]: "Only 39% of people have a positive view of Elon Musk and Doge."

• Mara Liasson [13:25]: "Trump and his supporters are talking about impeaching judges."