A growing majority of Americans disapprove of President Donald Trump’s tariff policies, with fears mounting that they are driving up inflation and hurting the U.S. economy. According to new national polls, nearly two-thirds (64%) of Americans disapprove of how Trump is handling tariffs, and a striking 76% believe the policies will raise consumer prices.
Public Opinion Turns Against Tariffs
A new ABC News/Washington Post/Ipsos poll reveals that seven in 10 Americans expect tariffs to worsen inflation. Even among Republicans, nearly half (47%) agree tariffs will negatively impact prices. Among independents, that number rises to 75%, showing a significant shift in a critical voting bloc.
While the Trump administration recently paused some tariffs amid ongoing negotiations, most Americans remain skeptical. Fifty-six percent believe Trump’s trade policies will hurt America’s global economic leadership, compared to just 42% who see them as beneficial.
Inflation and Economic Anxiety Rising
A separate poll by the AP-NORC Center confirms similar trends. Three-quarters of respondents said Trump’s tariffs are expected to increase the cost of consumer goods. Majorities are also worried about groceries, big-ticket purchases, and a possible recession in the near term.
Overall, 60% of adults disapprove of Trump’s economic management, including his handling of international trade. While some Republicans still support the tariffs for their potential to boost domestic manufacturing, the general public remains unconvinced. Only about four in 10 think tariffs will create U.S. jobs, while the same number believe they’ll reduce them.
Deep Partisan Divide on Trade
The issue, like much of the economy, is deeply partisan. More than 80% of Democrats strongly oppose tariffs, while 55% of Republicans support them, though just 27% are strong backers. Despite the divide, most Americans across political lines agree that tariffs are increasing their cost of living.
Even within Trump’s base, cracks are forming. Among rural Americans and non-college-educated white men—traditionally strong Trump supporters—nearly half express disapproval of how tariffs are being handled.
Manufacturing Promise vs. Inflation Reality
Despite criticism, 59% of Americans still believe tariffs could help create manufacturing jobs, a key pillar of Trump’s trade message. But that optimism is increasingly outweighed by widespread concern over rising prices and economic instability.
As the administration continues to negotiate new trade deals, economists warn that continued tariff uncertainty could stall growth and freeze business investments.
“The economy is increasingly stressed by tariff policy and inflation concerns,” said Daniel Hornung, former White House economic advisor. “Without a major shift, the risk of recession only grows.”