Trump’s Economic Approval Slips in Texas Amid Tariff Concerns

For the first time since the University of Texas/Texas Politics Project began tracking public opinion, President Donald Trump’s economic approval rating has turned negative in Texas. According to a poll conducted from April 18–28, 2025, 46% of Texans disapprove of Trump's handling of the economy, while 40% approve. Notably, 37% expressed strong disapproval.

Tariff Trouble

This shift comes amid growing unease over Trump's recent tariff policies, which have sparked concerns about rising consumer prices and economic uncertainty. A significant 70% of Texas voters believe these tariffs will lead to higher prices, and 53% anticipate a negative impact on their households.

Despite the overall decline, support remains strong among Texas Republicans, with 75% approving of Trump's economic management. In contrast, nearly 90% of Democrats disapprove.

Texans are Losing Confidence in the Economy

The poll also highlights that 37% of respondents feel economically worse off than a year ago, and 35% perceive the Texas economy as deteriorating.

While Trump's approval on immigration and border security is still high among Texas Republicans—92% approve—the economic concerns suggest a potential shift in voter priorities. As economic issues take center stage, the administration may need to address these concerns to maintain support in the state.

Businesses in the Lone Star State are Concerned

Texas business leaders have also expressed overwhelming concern about the economic fallout from the tariffs. According to anonymous surveys conducted by the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, nearly 60% of respondents across sectors such as manufacturing, services, and retail anticipated a negative impact on their businesses, with only 3.2% expecting any benefit. Many reported passing cost increases on to consumers and described the tariff rollout as chaotic and unpredictable, undermining business planning and confidence.

"Significant Uncertainty"

Amid President Trump's unpredictable trade war, Texas businesses and major companies across various sectors are struggling with significant uncertainty, hampering their ability to confidently forecast profits and make investment decisions. CEOs from companies including Rush Enterprises, Frost Bank, Tesla, Caterpillar, Southwest Airlines, and American Airlines report weakened demand, deferred investments, and rising operational costs due to steep tariffs—some exceeding 100%—on goods between the U.S. and China. These trade tensions have disrupted supply chains, slowed trucking and freight movement, and led to cautious hiring.

In summary, while President Trump maintains strong support among Texas Republicans, growing economic concerns and dissatisfaction with tariff policies are contributing to a decline in his overall approval ratings in the state. Addressing these economic issues may be crucial for the administration to regain broader support among Texas voters.