Donald Trump’s popularity has risen slightly—by two percentage points—despite the ongoing government shutdown and its inevitable disruptions to the U.S. economy.
According to a Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted between October 15 and 20, Trump’s approval rating now stands at 42%, up two points since the beginning of the month. Since April, his popularity has fluctuated between 40% and 44%, showing a steady base of voter support.
In contrast, a majority of Americans blame Republicans for the shutdown of the federal government, with 50% assigning responsibility to the party’s leadership in Congress. Meanwhile, 43% of respondents say Democrats are to blame for the budget deadlock.
The shutdown, now in its 21st day—the third longest in U.S. history—has forced thousands of federal employees into furlough. Twenty percent of respondents said they have been financially affected, while 40% reported knowing someone who has felt the consequences.
90% of Republicans continue to support Trump
Even after 21 days of political deadlock, the standoff continues. Republicans are proposing to extend the budget without increasing spending, while Democrats are demanding continued funding for social security programs that support vulnerable households. To pass the bill, at least seven Democratic senators would need to back the Republican proposal.
In the same survey, 72% of Americans agreed that health insurance subsidies should be extended, adding pressure for a bipartisan compromise. Despite the mounting political tension, 90% of Republicans still support Trump, while 5% of Democrats express a favorable view of his presidency.
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