A clear majority of American voters believe President Donald Trump has overstepped the boundaries of his presidential authority, according to a significant new national poll released as his first year back in office concludes.
Widespread Disapproval on Key Policy Areas
The latest survey from Quinnipiac University, conducted between December 11 and 15, 2025, found that 54 percent of respondents feel the president has exceeded his power. This sentiment follows a tumultuous year marked by aggressive tariffs, high-profile Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids, National Guard deployments, military strikes on suspected drug trafficking vessels, and the controversial partial demolition of the White House.
In contrast, 37 percent of those polled believed Trump has struck the right balance, while a further 7 percent stated he has not gone far enough. "Is the often-described 'most powerful person in the world' wielding too much power? More than half of Americans believe President Trump has crossed that line," commented Quinnipiac analyst Tim Malloy.
Stagnant Approval and Economic Anxiety
Overall, the poll places Trump's job approval rating at 40 percent, with 54 percent disapproving—figures unchanged from the institution's late October survey. This represents a five-point increase from the 35 percent approval he registered in a comparable Quinnipiac poll in December 2017, at the end of his first year during his initial term.
The study identified deep public dissatisfaction with Trump's handling of eight specific policy areas. Majorities disapproved of his approach to every issue cited:
- Healthcare: 59% dissatisfied vs 34% positive.
- Economy: 57% took exception vs 40% in favour.
- Foreign Trade: 55% disapproved vs 40% approved.
- Immigration Crackdown: 54% disapproved vs 44% approved.
- Foreign Policy: 54% negative vs 41% positive.
This economic discontent is underscored by data showing 64 percent of voters consider the rising cost of living a "very serious problem," with another 28% deeming it "serious." These findings align with a separate NPR/PBS News/Marist poll showing 57 percent disapproval of Trump's economic management.
Epstein Scandal and Accountability
Adding to the president's challenges, the poll reveals significant public dismay over his handling of the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. As the deadline for the Department of Justice's file release approaches, 65 percent of Americans disapprove of Trump's actions regarding the case, with only 26 percent expressing contentment.
Furthermore, on the question of accountability for the nation's economic state, 57 percent of respondents hold Trump responsible, while only 34 percent blame the Democratic opposition. This presents a stark contrast to the president's recent primetime address, where he insisted, "Wages are up, prices are down. Our nation is strong... We are poised for an economic boom the likes of which the world has never seen."
The Quinnipiac University poll paints a portrait of an electorate deeply divided yet leaning towards the view that presidential power has been stretched beyond its traditional limits during a profoundly eventful year.
