Brussels - Washington - Cairo: Europe and the Arabs - Agencies
Optimism was evident among some American voters during the election campaign. However, after Donald Trump took office and nearly 100 days had passed, the question being asked inside and outside America was: Does this optimism still exist? This was the focus of an opinion poll conducted in the United States. On the same question, a European newspaper, specifically one in Belgium, published the opinions of some political and partisan figures who were highly optimistic about Trump's arrival to the White House. Newsblade published a comment by one of them, saying, "I seriously underestimated the extent of his aggressive behavior." Arab media reports also covered this matter, and news websites in Cairo quoted the Middle East News Agency, which stated, "A large number of Americans expressed their disappointment in the administration of President Donald Trump, as his 100th day in office approaches." A new poll shows that a large percentage of citizens (55%) feel that Trump has not fulfilled his campaign promises, accusing him of failing to deliver the change he promised during his campaign, according to NBC News.
The poll indicated that 60% of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with Trump's accomplishments since taking office. Among the issues that concerned voters was his handling of the coronavirus crisis, with many believing he did not take the necessary steps to protect citizens.
Respondents also criticized the Trump administration on other issues such as healthcare, immigration, and the economy.
Social priorities also had a significant impact on their opinions, with many expressing concern about rising racial and social tensions.
The poll also included voters' views on the decline in progress made on environmental issues, with some expressing dissatisfaction with the actions already taken by the administration. Furthermore, some Republican and independent voters expressed disappointment, citing Trump's inability to unite the party or build alliances with other segments of society. Support for the Trump administration's policies on societal issues such as immigration and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives rose slightly. Regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), where the Trump administration has eliminated federal government programs and restricted funding for universities and other institutions that offer DEI programs, or investigated these programs, 44% of Americans approved of Trump's efforts on this issue, while 49% approved of his handling of border security and immigration.
The poll comes at a "sensitive" time for Trump and Republicans, as he seeks to regain lost trust and support from voters.