Less than a month into his second term, President Donald Trump has already surpassed the number of days he had a net positive approval rating in his entire first term. This development is significant given Trump's historically low approval ratings during his first term. According to Gallup polls, Trump's initial job approval rating for his second term is 47%, similar to the 45% reading at the start of his first term. This places him below all other elected presidents dating back to 1953 in terms of initial approval ratings. Trump's approval ratings have been characterized by sharp political polarization, with 91% of Republicans approving of his job performance, compared to just 6% of Democrats and 46% of independents. This 85-point gap between Republicans and Democrats is similar to the average 81-point gap throughout his first term. The Quinnipiac University National Poll also found that Trump is starting his second term stronger than his first, with 46% of voters approving of the job he is doing, while 43% disapprove and 11% did not offer an opinion. This is a ten-point increase from the start of his first term. Despite these improvements, Trump's approval ratings remain historically low compared to other presidents. His ability to maintain or improve these ratings will be crucial in determining the success of his second term.

It is also worth noting that Trump's presidency has been marked by controversy and a departure from traditional political norms. His actions and policies have been highly divisive, leading to significant polarization in public opinion. The long-term implications of his presidency on American democracy are a subject of ongoing debate and concern. Trump's recent pardons of individuals involved in the January 6 U.S. Capitol violence have also been controversial, with some of those pardoned reportedly engaging in further illegal activities after their release. This has raised questions about the impact of Trump's actions on the rule of law and the integrity of the democratic process.