President Joe Biden prepares to deliver his farewell address amid historically low approval ratings as his single term in office draws to a close.
According to Fox News, multiple national polls indicate that Biden's presidency is ending with deeply negative approval ratings. CNN's latest survey shows that just 36% of Americans approve of his job performance, while 64% disapprove.
The president's approval ratings have remained underwater since autumn 2021, following criticism over the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan and rising inflation concerns. These numbers never recovered despite Biden's efforts to highlight economic achievements and infrastructure investments during his term.
Three major national polls released this month - from CNN, USA Today/Suffolk University, and Marist College - demonstrate consistent negative perceptions of Biden's presidency. The CNN survey reveals that 61% of Americans view his presidency as a failure, while only 38% consider it successful.
The USA Today/Suffolk University poll provides an even more detailed breakdown of public opinion regarding Biden's legacy. According to their findings, 44% of registered voters believe history will judge Biden as a failed president. Only 5% think he will be remembered as a great president, while 27% expect him to be viewed as fair and 21% as good.
Marist's polling data aligns with these negative assessments. Their survey shows that just over one-third of adults believe Biden will be remembered as one of the worst presidents in American history, with an additional 19% expecting him to be considered below average.
The incoming president, Donald Trump, faces his own complex legacy and public perception challenges. According to the Marist poll, Americans remain divided about Trump, with 44% viewing him favorably and 49% holding an unfavorable opinion.
The USA Today/Suffolk University poll reveals that 44% believe Trump's first term will be viewed by history as a failure. However, his ratings have improved since his November victory over Vice President Kamala Harris, who became the Democratic nominee after Biden's withdrawal from the race.
Public opinion appears particularly focused on Trump's economic promises. The Marist poll indicates growing optimism about personal finances under the incoming administration despite ongoing concerns about his other policy positions.
In his upcoming farewell address, Biden is expected to defend his legacy by emphasizing his administration's accomplishments. As stated in his letter to Americans released Wednesday morning, Biden wrote:
Today, we have the strongest economy in the world and have created a record 16.6 million new jobs. Wages are up. Inflation continues to come down. The racial wealth gap is the lowest it's been in 20 years.
The transition period has highlighted significant shifts in American political dynamics. The Marist poll shows that while Americans express optimism about economic prospects under Trump, they remain divided on key policy issues. More than 60% disapprove of Trump's pledge to pardon January 6 supporters, and the public shows mixed reactions to his proposed immigration policies.
President Biden's term, which began during a global pandemic and unprecedented political tensions, concludes with historically low approval ratings across multiple national surveys. As he prepares to hand over power to President-elect Trump on Monday, polls indicate that most Americans view his presidency as unsuccessful despite his administration's efforts to address economic challenges and implement major infrastructure initiatives.
The incoming Trump administration faces its own set of expectations and challenges, with Americans expressing both economic optimism and policy concerns as the nation prepares for another significant political transition.
