The political landscape continues to shift, with recent polls shedding light on former President Donald Trump’s approval ratings, both nationally and specifically within the Sunshine State. While national sentiment shows a dip in his overall approval, Florida residents present a somewhat different picture, maintaining a net positive outlook on his job performance.
Recent aggregators from RealClearPolitics and The New York Times indicate that nationally, Trump’s approval rating has become net negative, experiencing a notable drop over the past month after a period of relative stability. As of late November, RealClearPolitics showed 43% approval against 54.8% disapproval, while The New York Times aggregator recorded a term low of 41% approval. This decline is observed amidst ongoing discussions surrounding economic issues and various controversies.
However, a different narrative emerges when focusing on Florida. According to Morning Consult, which compiles state-level data over three months, Trump boasts a net positive approval rating in Florida. Their November 12 update reveals that 51% of Floridians approve of Trump’s job performance, compared to 45% who disapprove. This figure has remained consistent with the previous month’s update, highlighting a stable base of support in his home state.
Despite Trump’s efforts to highlight falling prices, such as a 25% decrease in Walmart’s Thanksgiving meal bundle, voter approval on his handling of the economy remains a contentious point. A CBS News/YouGov poll conducted in mid-November found that 60% of Americans believe Trump makes economic conditions “sound better than they really are.” This perception is particularly significant for Floridians, who are currently grappling with various cost-of-living increases.
Local residents, including those in Vero Beach and across Indian River County, are feeling the pinch of rising expenses. From soaring healthcare premiums under Obamacare, set to spike in 2026, to increased gasoline prices noted by AAA, and impending electricity rate hikes from Florida Power & Light for millions of customers starting January 1st, the economic pressures are tangible.
While Trump aims to reclaim economic victories, these local financial burdens contribute to a broader skepticism regarding his economic messaging. The Morning Consult poll also delved into specific policy areas, indicating that while Trump receives the worst disapproval on healthcare and the economy, his performance on national security and immigration fares better among respondents.
Historically, Trump’s approval ratings in the October of his first years in office, both as the 45th and 47th presidents, have been lower compared to most other modern presidents at similar points in their administrations. For instance, Gallup’s October 2021 poll showed Joe Biden at 42% approval, whereas Trump stood at 37% in October 2017. This historical context further emphasizes the unique trajectory of his public perception.
For Vero Beach residents, understanding these state-level dynamics is crucial, as political sentiments often translate into policy decisions that impact daily life, from economic stability to public services. The ongoing debate around economic management and voter sentiment in Florida will undoubtedly continue to be a key factor in the state’s political discourse.
