Concerns are growing regarding President Trump’s use of Twitter and its potential impact on his administration, as well as a broader decline in strong support among key voter demographics.
Shifting Public Opinion
A recent poll conducted by Politico/Morning Consult found that 69 percent of voters believe President Trump uses Twitter too much, and 59 percent consider his Twitter activity to be detrimental. A majority of those polled also expressed concern that the president’s tweets could pose a risk to national security.
This dissatisfaction is not limited to one political party. According to Politico, a majority – 53 percent – of Republican voters also believe the president tweets too frequently, though 41 percent of GOP voters still view his Twitter use as a positive.
Erosion of Core Support
Beyond Twitter, a shift in sentiment is apparent among the president’s most loyal supporters. The Washington Post reported a decline in “strong approval” ratings, a trend corroborated by analysis from FiveThirtyEight’s Nate Silver. The decline in strong approval is greater than the overall decline in approval.
A Quinnipiac University poll released Wednesday further supports this observation, showing fading strong approval ratings across multiple constituencies, including Republicans and white voters without a college degree.
Those groups that previously demonstrated “strong support” – including Republicans, white voters without a college degree, white men over 65, white women, Independents, and young adults aged 18-34 – have all experienced a steady decrease in their level of support.
What Could Happen Next
If these trends continue, the president could face increased challenges in maintaining party unity and mobilizing his base. A further erosion of support could lead to greater difficulty in advancing his legislative agenda. It is also possible that the president may adjust his communication strategy, though there is no indication of this at this time. Alternatively, the president could continue his current approach, potentially further alienating moderate voters and even some within his own party.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this decline in support partisan?
No, the data indicates this is not solely a partisan issue. A majority of Republican voters also believe the president tweets too much.
Which groups have seen the most significant decline in strong approval?
Republicans, whites without a college degree, white men 65 and older, white women, Independents, and 18- to 34-year-olds have all seen a steady decline in strong approval.
What does the Washington Post say about how opinions change?
The Washington Post reported that it is rare for opinions to flip completely, and that changes in support often occur gradually, with voters first becoming “undecided” before shifting their allegiance.
As public sentiment evolves, what role do you believe direct communication via social media should play in presidential leadership?
