93570734837Public Perception of Tariff Policy

Public opinion on Trump’s tariff policies has been overwhelmingly negative, with approximately 59-64% of Americans disapproving of his approach to tariffs, according to various polls.[1][2][3] Skepticism crosses demographic lines, with 61% of young adults, 59% of Americans without a college degree, and 62% of those earning less than $50,000 per year expressing disapproval—including notably key groups that supported Trump in the 2024 election.[4] Even among his own voters, about 20% disagree with his tariff policies.[4]

Americans' concerns about tariffs mainly focus on their economic impact. Approximately 80% believe that tariffs will raise consumer prices, with 47% expecting prices to rise "significantly".[5] Additionally, 55% anticipate that tariffs will harm their personal finances, 53% believe that they will harm the U.S. economy, and 52% think that they will harm the global standing of the United States.[5] Although Republicans show more support for tariffs (+57% net approval compared to -79% among Democrats), the policy remains divisive even within Trump’s base, with MAGA Republicans (+74% net approval) significantly more favorable than non-MAGA Republicans (+39%).