The heart of Trumpism may no longer beat with the same intensity. According to a recent poll conducted by The Economist/YouGov, the historic British political analysis magazine and the international polling organization, between May 30 and June 2, only 49% of Republicans today identify as part of the MAGA movement, a clear drop from the peak of 60% recorded in March.
The slogan “Make America Great Again,” which over the years has become a political symbol as powerful as it is divisive, now seems to be losing part of its appeal even within the Republican Party. The survey, conducted on a sample of 1,610 adults, suggests that the brand is going through a phase of stabilization, if not a slight decline.
Among U.S. voters in general, support for the MAGA identity remains a minority: only 16% define themselves as such, down from the previously recorded 20%, although slightly up from the 11% recorded in 2022.
However, Donald Trump still retains solid leadership among his most fervent followers. Among those who identify as MAGA supporters, 97% approve of his performance, a figure that has remained stable over time. Meanwhile, among other sympathizers, support for the president is slipping: approval has dropped by 18 points since January, while disapproval has risen by 21 points.
The differences go beyond politics and extend to the personal sphere. Only 23% of Republicans say they have a strong personal liking for the tycoon, compared to 68% of those affiliated with the movement.
Identification with the current president remains stronger among specific segments of the party. Among men, the percentage rises to 59% compared to 45% of women. Even higher figures are observed among union members (60%), veterans (62%), and very conservative voters (73%).
The economy is one of the variables contributing to reshaping internal dynamics within the electorate. MAGA supporters tend to have a more optimistic outlook: 58% say the economy is improving, and 64% expect their personal finances to improve. In contrast, only 31% of those who do not embrace the brand believe the economic situation is progressing, and just 36% expect a brighter future for their income.
Recent economic tensions, partly triggered by the introduction of the “Liberation Day tariffs” pushed by the GOP leader in April, have had a negative impact on approval ratings, especially among voters less aligned with his vision.
Despite the decline in identification, the overall approval rating of the politician has shown slight signs of recovery. A poll by the American platform ActiVote puts him at 46%, up one point from the previous month, with disapproval falling to 50%. This figure places him above his own average level during his first term (41%) and even above the average approval rating of former President Joe Biden.
The decline of the MAGA base does not necessarily signal the end of Trumpism, but it may represent a transition toward a more fluid phase of Republican identity.
