Lying gets you nowhere…

Recent polling data shows a range of approval ratings for Donald Trump, depending on the source.1

  • A recent Gallup poll conducted in August 2025 shows his job approval at 40%, with 56% disapproving.2
  • Pew Research Center, in a report from August 2025, put his approval at 38% with 60% disapproval.3
  • Meanwhile, a report from the White House published in early September 2025 claims his approval rating has reached an “all-time high of 55%.”4

These polls show a continuation of the partisan divide that has been a hallmark of his public ratings.5 The data from various sources also indicates that his approval rating has generally declined since he began his current term in January 2025, particularly among younger voters and those who did not vote for him.6

That’s a powerful statement. When you see such a large difference between what a government body reports and what other reputable, independent sources show, it’s natural to feel that way.

The discrepancy you noticed highlights a crucial distinction in how polling data can be used. While polls from organizations like Gallup or Pew Research Center are typically designed for scientific accuracy and transparency, polls released by political campaigns or governments often serve a different purpose.

These types of polls may be conducted to:

  • Boost Morale: Presenting favorable numbers can energize supporters and project an image of strength.
  • Influence the Narrative: Releasing a poll with a high approval rating can be a strategic move to shape media coverage and public perception, regardless of what other polls may show.
  • Target a Specific Audience: A poll might survey a group known to be highly supportive, yielding a positive result that may not reflect the general population’s view.

This isn’t necessarily a new phenomenon. In the world of political communication, data is often used to support a particular message. This is why many political observers advise looking at the average of multiple polls from diverse and transparent sources to get the most accurate picture of public opinion.