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Most Americans are optimistic about the next four years under Donald Trump’s leadership. According to a poll commissioned by CBS News, 60% of citizens are hopeful about the future. This level of optimism is higher than at the beginning of Trump’s first term in office in 2017, when it stood at 56%.
Economic expectations and priorities
A majority of Americans (52%) believe the economy will improve in 2025. These expectations are particularly strong among Trump voters, who believe he will lower food prices, improve household finances and promote economic growth. The economy and the fight against inflation remain top priorities for Americans who supported Trump in the election.
Politics and foreign affairs
In the international arena, respondents expect Trump to promote peace and stability, particularly in resolving conflicts in the Middle East. Most believe that he will be able to reduce tensions between Israel and its neighbours.
Trump’s controversial ideas
Some of Trump’s ideas remain controversial. For example, 61% of respondents are sceptical about the idea of buying Greenland, although 68% of Trump voters support this initiative. On the issue of immigration policy, a majority (55%) supports the deportation of illegal immigrants, but does not approve of using the military for this purpose.
Historical context
The level of optimism associated with the start of Trump’s second term remains lower than at the beginning of the presidencies of Barack Obama (79%), Ronald Reagan (69%) or Bill Clinton (70%). However, given today’s hyper-polarised political landscape, this figure is significant.
Americans believe that their financial and social situation will improve under Trump, although there are still differences in the perception of his policy initiatives.
