Most say US worse off compared to a year ago: Survey
The Hill
by Max RegoFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A new NPR/PBS News/Marist poll reveals that 55% of respondents believe President Trump is leading the country in a negative direction, an increase from 51% previously. This sentiment comes ahead of Trump's State of the Union address, reflecting broader concerns about his impact on national progress. The survey highlights growing public skepticism about Trump's leadership, with many feeling the country is worse off compared to a year ago.
The poll, conducted by reputable news organizations, surveyed over 2,000 adults and found significant partisan divides. While 87% of Republicans view Trump favorably, 53% of independents and 61% of Democrats believe he is steering the nation in the wrong direction. This aligns with previous polls showing a steady decline in public approval for Trump's handling of key issues like immigration, healthcare, and economic policies.
This shift in sentiment matters as it underscores the challenges Trump faces in uniting the country. With his State of the Union address looming, these findings signal heightened scrutiny over his agenda. The poll also points to broader societal divisions and a growing sense of political polarization, which could influence midterm elections and beyond. As public trust erodes, the implications
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/23/2026