NBC News Poll: Most Americans believe nation on 'wrong track'

A new national poll released Monday shows that most Americans believe the country is headed in the wrong direction, with concerns about the economy and threats to democracy at the top of their minds. The NBC News Decision Desk Poll also found mixed opinions on President Donald Trump's performance.

Sixty-one percent of adults surveyed said the United States is on the "wrong track," a slight increase from 60% in April. Only 39% think the country is on the "right track."

When asked about the most important issues facing the country, the economy was the highest concern at 27%. Threats to democracy followed closely at 23%, and health care was a significant worry for 17% of those surveyed. Other issues, including crime and safety (10%) and immigration (9%), were also noted.

President Trump's overall job approval rating is 45% (23% strongly approve, 22% somewhat approve) against 55% disapproval (15% somewhat disapprove, 40% strongly disapprove). His highest approval came on handling border security and immigration, with 66% of Americans approving. However, fewer approved of his handling of inflation and the cost of living (38%) and trade and tariffs (39%). Regarding diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts, 55% approved of how he handled them.

The poll also explored public trust in institutions and various policy matters. A large majority, 81%, believe that if a federal court rules a Trump administration action illegal, the administration "has to follow the court's ruling and stop its action."

A strong 80% of respondents expressed support for using vaccines to prevent diseases (49% strongly support, 31% somewhat support).

On personal finances, 51% of Americans expect President Trump's tariff policies to make their finances "worse" in the next year. Thirty-four percent also reported their financial situation is "worse today" compared to a year ago, while 21% said it was "better."

When asked about the main cause of chronic health problems like obesity, 35% blamed the food industry, and 32% pointed to individual choices.

The public holds different views on colleges and universities, with 44% believing they are "helping the country," while 24% said they are "hurting the country." Another 31% felt colleges were "not making a difference."

Looking at political parties, the Democratic Party had a 43% favorability rating (10% strongly, 33% somewhat), while the Republican Party had a 44% favorability rating (13% strongly, 31% somewhat). However, when asked which party fights for people like them, 37% said "neither party," compared to 24% who chose the Democratic Party and 22% the Republican Party.

The poll also found that 64% of Americans oppose using government funds for a military parade in Washington, D.C., to celebrate the U.S. Army's 250th Birthday. Of these, 44% strongly opposed the idea.

Feelings about the Trump administration's actions were mixed, but a combined 54% expressed negative emotions (23% furious, 18% angry, 13% dissatisfied).

The NBC News Decision Desk Poll was conducted online from May 30 to June 10, 2025, among a national sample of 19,410 adults aged 18 and over. The margin of error for the overall results is plus or minus 2.1 percentage points. The survey was powered by SurveyMonkey and included a diverse sample with 60% White respondents, 18% Hispanic or Latino/a, 12% Black or African American, and 11% identifying as Other.

A more detailed version of the poll results may be viewed below: