Key takeaways:

• Donald Trump says his approval rating is 64 percent.
• He calls mainstream polls “rigged” and only trusts Trafalgar Group.
• The Trafalgar graphic showed 50+ percent support.
• Experts warn Trafalgar’s methods may miss key voter groups.
• His approval among independents plunged by 42 points.

Donald Trump posted late on Truth Social. He shared a Trafalgar Group graphic that showed over 50 percent of voters approve of him. Yet he insisted the real approval rating is 64 percent. He wrote, “The polls are rigged even more than the writers. The real number is 64%.” He praised his border policy, low inflation, strong military, and “hotter” America. Then he wished everyone a Happy New Year.

Trump’s new approval rating claim

In his post, Trump highlighted a graphic reading, “Over 50% of voters approve of President Trump.” He argued this graphic undersells his true backing. He declared his approval rating at 64 percent. He said that rate reflects America being the “hottest country” today. This claim first surfaced in a pre-Christmas address. During that talk, he said he saved a “ready to fail” nation from ruin. He then called the U.S. the “hottest country anywhere in the world.” Many critics called that an odd mix of slang and policy talk. Still, Trump stuck by it in his year-end post.

Reaction to the “hottest country” remark

Political commentators pounced on the “hottest country” line. They said it felt more like marketing than serious leadership. Supporters, however, embraced the term. They shared memes and tweets with #HottestCountry. Meanwhile, critics pointed out that hype doesn’t change poll numbers. Major polling firms still show Trump’s approval rating under 50 percent. Some have him in the mid-40s. This gap led many to ask why he only cited Trafalgar’s result.

Experts warn about Trafalgar Group’s methods

Trafalgar Group is a smaller polling agency that claims to reach “hidden” voters. Critics say its samples skew conservative and omit key demographics. Past elections saw Trafalgar overstate support for certain candidates. Because of these misses, many analysts treat their results with caution. In contrast, larger firms use broad, balanced samples and track trends over time. Trafalgar’s polls can swing widely from month to month. Even so, Trump embraced the higher number without noting these concerns.

Independent voter support dives underwater

Despite Trump’s claim to a 64 percent approval rating, his real support among independents is weak. CNN data analyst Harry Enten revealed a stunning drop. Trump’s net approval rating among independents fell by 42 points over one year. He went from minus one to minus forty-three by December. Enten compared Trump to Jacques Cousteau, saying he’s “underwater” with independents. Enten excitedly noted, “We’re talking about 43 points underwater come December. Donald Trump is hanging out with Jacques Cousteau.” This vivid metaphor showed just how low his backing stands.

Why did this fall happen? Analysts point to many reasons. Some independents dislike his social media tone. Others feel worn out by his constant media presence. Many also worry about his policies on health care, taxes, and more. All these factors make it hard for him to regain that key swing vote.

What comes next for Trump’s approval rating?

Trump plans to keep spotlighting polls that show him in a positive light. He will likely push for more Trafalgar-style results. At the same time, he will attack mainstream polls as biased. Yet real change comes at the ballot box, not in survey numbers. His team aims to boost turnout among loyal supporters. They may also try new tactics to woo independents back.

Some GOP strategists suggest he soften his social media tone. Others advise focusing on specific policy wins instead of broad claims. Grassroots events and town halls might help him reconnect with swing voters. These moves could help stabilize his approval rating.

Still, polls are just snapshots. They change as campaigns heat up. Each new survey can shift the narrative on his popularity. As the next election nears, both Trump and his critics will watch every poll closely. Is he really at 64 percent, or are the polls rigged? Time – and votes – will tell.

FAQs

How does Trump justify claiming a 64 percent approval rating?

He cites a Trafalgar Group graphic and argues other polls miss key supporters.

Why do experts question Trafalgar Group polls?

They warn the firm’s sampling methods may lean too conservative and omit crucial demographics.

What did the CNN data analyst say about independents?

He noted Trump’s net approval among independents plunged by 42 points, calling it “underwater.”

Can Trump boost his approval rating before the next election?

He can highlight friendly polls and adjust campaign tactics, but real change requires winning votes.