- Trump’s overall approval in New Hampshire remains steady at 48%, despite economic concerns.
- 53% of Granite Staters disapprove of Trump’s handling of the economy, a decline since February.
- 58% believe a recession is likely in the next 12 months, up from 46% in August 2024.
Trump’s Economic Policies Face Scrutiny
According to a recent poll by the University of New Hampshire Survey Center, President Donald Trump’s overall approval rating in New Hampshire remains steady at 48%, with 52% disapproving. However, his handling of the economy has seen a significant decline in support. The poll, conducted between March 20-24, 2025, found that 53% of Granite Staters disapprove of Trump’s economic policies, while 46% approve. This marks a six-point drop in net approval since February, reflecting growing skepticism among residents.
Tariffs and Economic Uncertainty
Trump’s use of tariffs has been a contentious issue, with 53% of New Hampshire residents disapproving of his approach. The President’s repeated threats and reversals on tariffs involving countries like Canada, Mexico, and the European Union have contributed to market volatility. Starting April 2, 2025, Trump is set to impose a 25% tariff on imported passenger vehicles, light trucks, and auto parts, a move that has drawn criticism from both Democrats and Independents. The poll also revealed that 58% of residents believe a recession is likely in the next 12 months, up from 46% in August 2024.
Foreign Affairs and Ukraine
New Hampshire remains the most positive state in New England regarding Trump’s job performance, including his handling of foreign affairs. However, 54% of residents disapprove of his foreign policy, and 51% disapprove of his approach to the Ukraine conflict. Trump’s pledge to end the war between Russia and Ukraine has been met with mixed reactions, particularly after his contentious meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Despite this, 83% of Granite Staters view Russia as an enemy, aligning with broader national sentiment.
Transgender Athletes and Federal Policy
In February 2025, Trump signed an executive order banning transgender female athletes from competing on women’s sports teams. This move has garnered significant support in New Hampshire, with 71% of respondents agreeing with the policy. However, opinions are sharply divided along party lines, with only 12% of Independents and 1% of Republicans supporting transgender female athletes’ participation in women’s sports. A plurality of residents (48%) believe this decision should be made at the federal level, though Democrats prefer state-level governance.
National Economic Concerns
Nationally, Trump’s economic policies are under scrutiny. A CBS News/YouGov poll conducted in March 2025 found that most Americans believe Trump has focused too much on tariffs, which they expect will raise prices rather than lower them. While Trump retains majority approval for his immigration policies and deportation efforts, his economic strategies are increasingly seen as ineffective. Only 25% of Americans feel his policies have made them financially better off, compared to 40% before he took office. This sentiment is particularly strong among Independents, whose approval of Trump’s economic handling has dropped from 51% in February to 43% in March.
Looking Ahead
As Trump’s presidency progresses, economic concerns are likely to remain a focal point. While his overall approval in New Hampshire remains steady, the decline in support for his economic policies could pose challenges in the future. The upcoming tariffs on imported vehicles and ongoing debates over transgender athletes and foreign policy will continue to shape public opinion in the Granite State and beyond.