Politics
New Poll Pours Cold Water On Media’s ‘Trump Regret’ Narrative
Despite relentless media narratives suggesting widespread regret among Trump voters, a new national survey from Emerson College Polling released April 30th shows that President Donald Trump retains a remarkably loyal base. The poll—marking the first 100 days of Trump’s second term—reveals that the vast majority of voters would cast the same ballot if given a do-over of the 2024 election.
According to the results, “93% of Harris voters and 94% of Trump voters would still vote for the candidate they voted for in 2024,” giving Trump a slight edge in a hypothetical rematch: Trump 48% (+1), Harris 47%.
The poll directly undermines media-driven speculation that Trump’s policy decisions and political tone have alienated his 2024 supporters. Instead, it appears both camps are dug in—with neither showing meaningful signs of post-election regret.
Spencer Kimball, executive director of Emerson College Polling, explained, “Despite several unpopular domestic and foreign policies, President Trump still holds an entrenched base of voters who, if given the chance, say they would vote for him again.”
via Emerson College Polling
The poll paints a nuanced picture of the Trump presidency’s early days. While his base remains solid, the public is less enthusiastic about his policies. Trump’s overall job approval stands at 45%, with an equal 45% disapproval. Ten percent remain neutral.
Areas of concern for the Trump administration include economic strategy and global conflict. A plurality of voters (49%) believe Trump’s economic policy is making things worse, compared to just 29% who say it’s improving conditions. Only 37% approve of Trump’s handling of the economy, while 49% disapprove.
Fifty-two percent describe Trump’s second term as “more of a failure,” compared to 48% who see it as a success. Predictably, party affiliation plays a major role—86% of Republicans call the term a success, while 88% of Democrats call it a failure. Independents lean negative, 55% to 45%.
via Emerson College Polling
Perhaps most telling: even with slumping approval on policy issues, Trump’s reelection support remains largely intact. Only 7% of his 2024 voters express any regret.
In contrast to early first-term polls of past presidents, Trump’s ability to hold his base—despite controversy, policy blowback, and relentless negative coverage—highlights the ongoing realignment of American politics. The 2024 Electoral College map (312–226) and the tight popular vote margin reflected this divide.
The Emerson poll also included views on high-profile administration figures. Vice President JD Vance has a 39% favorable and 43% unfavorable rating. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is viewed favorably by 33% and unfavorably by 39%. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. remains one of the few political figures with nearly even ratings: 41% favorable to 40% unfavorable.
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) headed by Elon Musk, is also polarizing: 47% disapprove of Musk’s job performance, while 41% approve.
In his first 100 days back in office, President Trump has aggressively pursued a flurry of policy actions, many of which reflect a return to his America First agenda. Trump reinstated key border security measures, including the “Remain in Mexico” policy, and increased deportations through executive orders aimed at tightening immigration enforcement. His administration also began construction on new sections of the southern border wall and expanded support for ICE operations.
On the economic front, Trump reversed several Biden-era climate regulations and green-lit domestic oil and gas drilling projects to lower energy costs. His tariffs on Chinese and European imports were reinstated, with the goal of protecting American industries and re-shoring manufacturing.
Trump signed an executive order banning DEI programs from federal agencies and initiated a review of woke military training. Internationally, he ordered a freeze on foreign aid to several nations and reopened peace talks in Eastern Europe with a more direct approach.
In short, while headlines might shout “Buyer’s Remorse,” the numbers say otherwise. For Trump supporters, 2024 still looks like the right call.
