CNN's chief data analyst Harry Enten highlighted a significant and concerning political milestone for former President Donald Trump on Wednesday. According to comprehensive polling averages, Trump has now endured a negative net approval rating for every single day since March 12, 2025, marking a full year of consistently unfavorable public sentiment.
A Year of Underwater Approval
"We have now reached the point in which Trump has been swimming with the fishes for a year," Enten stated, using a vivid metaphor to describe the sustained negative ratings. This extended period of poor approval underscores a persistent challenge for Trump's political standing as he potentially eyes future electoral contests.
Particularly Dire with Independent Voters
The situation appears even more severe when examining independent voters specifically. Enten emphasized that Trump's performance with this crucial demographic is "reeaallllly bad," adding that he is playing "downright awful with them." Independent voters often serve as swing blocs in elections, making their negative views a significant electoral liability.
Historical Comparison to George W. Bush
Enten provided historical context by comparing Trump's ratings to those of former President George W. Bush. Bush's second term faced substantial turmoil due to his administration's handling of Hurricane Katrina, the ongoing Iraq War, and the eventual 2008 economic crisis. Despite these challenges, Enten noted that Trump is currently faring even worse in approval metrics than Bush did during that difficult period.
Polling Data on Administration Priorities
Further illustrating the depth of public dissatisfaction, Enten referenced a recent Fox News poll. The survey indicated that vast swathes of the electorate believe Trump's administration is "focused on the wrong things." This perception aligns with the broader trend of negative approval and suggests a disconnect between the administration's priorities and public expectations.
Political Implications and Midterm Concerns
Reflecting on the data, Enten expressed bewilderment at the political ramifications. "I mean how does that work? How does that works politically, John?" he asked anchor John Berman during the segment. "I don't understand how that works, especially if those numbers hold to the midterm elections. That's a big frickin' problem." His comments underscore the potential impact these sustained negative ratings could have on upcoming electoral cycles, particularly if they persist.
The analysis from Enten paints a stark picture of Trump's current political standing, with a year-long trend of negative approval ratings posing significant challenges for his future political endeavors and influencing broader electoral dynamics.
