Why Joe Bidens 100-Day Approval Rating Only Beats Trump and Gerald Ford: A Closer Look
Why Joe Biden's 100-Day Approval Rating Only Beats Trump and Gerald Ford
The 100-day approval rating for Joe Biden is significantly lower than that of other presidents, but this phenomenon is not unique or surprising. It is reflective of the deeply divided political landscape in the United States, particularly the enduring support for former President Donald Trump and the historical performance of Gerald Ford.
Understanding the Context
One key factor is that approximately 30–35 percent of the country will always disapprove of Biden because they either support the 'Pandemic President' or will never approve of a Democrat. This mentality has its roots in the era of Roger Ailes and Rush Limbaugh, where polarizing figures have garnered significant, albeit often extreme, support.
Populism and Persistent Disapproval
Another significant reason for the low approval ratings is the ongoing effect of populism. Some of the hatred and mistrust from the right is carried over to the left, especially following rhetoric that may be repeated often without reasonable basis. Even some individuals on the far-left speculate that they would have preferred a 'Pandemic President' to Biden, or feel that he did not act fast enough to reverse actions taken during the Unpresident's (Trump's) tenure. This lingering mistrust hampers Biden's ability to gain widespread approval.
The Current Political Landscape
The current political landscape in the United States remains highly polarized. Even after the initial excitement and hope surrounding the new administration, much of the public remains skeptical and critical. The continuation of the pandemic also plays a role, as some may feel that Biden’s actions have not met their expectations for progress.
Key Reasons for Low Approval
Several specific reasons contribute to Biden's lower approval ratings:
1. Different Times, Different Efficacy
Times have changed, and politicians face the challenge of maintaining broad popularity. It is increasingly difficult for a president to gain widespread support due to the intense political polarization and media scrutiny. This makes it even more challenging for Biden to achieve high approval ratings in a short period.
2. Agenda and Public Perception
Biden's agenda is more aligned with progressive policies, which may be viewed by some segments of the population as being too far-reaching or transformative. While many of his policies are necessary and beneficial, the perception of ‘sticker shock’ amongst the public can lead to lower approval ratings. The electorate may be surprised by the intensity of certain proposals and feel that they do not align with their immediate needs or values.
3. Border Crisis and Incompetence
The recent border crisis has also led to a significant decrease in Biden's approval ratings. Despite predictions of a potential surge at the border, the administration seemed unprepared and ineffective in addressing the situation. The crisis highlights administrative incompetence and lack of foresight, tarnishing the administration’s image and reliability.
Conclusion
It is crucial to understand that the current political environment is fraught with challenges. The enduring support for Trump and the futility of addressing a divided country fostered by his rhetoric imply that significant changes may take years. Moreover, as long as the GOP continues to spread misinformation and criticisms about Biden and his agenda, it will be difficult to move forward effectively. The path to higher approval ratings for Biden and a more unified nation lies in overcoming these divisive forces and fostering a more collaborative and informed political climate.