Former President Donald Trump's recent address to Congress provided an opportunity to reflect on his activities during his initial weeks back in the White House. He highlighted what he considers significant achievements since his return to office. Public reaction, however, remains mixed, with polls showing a divided nation.

Recent surveys reveal varying perspectives on Trump's performance. A Marist College poll for PBS News and NPR placed his approval rating at 45%, with 49% disapproving. A CNN poll showed slightly higher approval at 48%, with 52% disapproving. Other polls, like one from CBS News, showed his approval slightly above water.

The strong partisan divide continues to be evident, with Democrats largely disapproving and Republicans overwhelmingly approving of Trump's performance. Despite the mixed reactions, his current approval ratings are an improvement compared to his first term, when he started and remained underwater throughout his four years. A key factor in this improvement is the solidified Republican support he now enjoys, a contrast to his first term when he faced challenges within his own party.

Trump's first six weeks back in office were marked by a rapid series of executive orders and actions. He signed 81 executive orders, exceeding the pace of recent predecessors. These actions addressed campaign promises, allowed him to exert executive authority, and implement significant changes within the federal government. These included a focus on immigration, potential tariffs on trading partners, and shifts in the nation's international relations.

Public opinion reflects a sense that the pace of change is rapid. While Trump's current approval ratings are better than his first term, they remain lower than those of recent predecessors at a similar point in their presidencies. Political analysts point to the absence of a traditional honeymoon period for modern presidents, citing increased polarization. Comparisons with former President Biden's approval ratings, which initially hovered in the low to mid 50s before declining, highlight the challenges both presidents faced.

While Trump's overall approval hovers slightly above water, it has dipped since his return to office. Analysts attribute this decline to the realities of governing and anticipate further potential declines as policy impacts become more apparent. Trump performs well on issues like crime and immigration, and his economic rating is significantly better than Biden's. However, inflation remains a crucial factor influencing his political standing.