News Summary
A recent Winthrop University poll shows divided opinions among South Carolinians on President Trump’s performance, with 44% viewing it positively. Despite a slight decline in disapproval since 2017, opinions largely vary based on political affiliation. Additionally, views on Elon Musk and economic concerns were highlighted, showcasing the complex voter sentiment in the state ahead of the 2026 elections.
Rock Hill, South Carolina – A recent poll conducted by Winthrop University has revealed a sharply divided public opinion among South Carolinians regarding President Donald Trump’s performance in office. According to the survey, 44% of respondents hold a positive view of Trump’s presidency, while 43% express negative feelings, a statistic that aligns closely with national trends observed across the United States.
The poll, which marks Trump’s 100th day in office, gathered responses from 1,546 individuals, resulting in a margin of error of 2.49%. Compared to a similar poll in 2017 when Trump faced a 47% disapproval rating at the same juncture in his presidency, there has been a slight decrease in disapproval this year, indicating more respondents view his presidency favorably compared to the past.
Dr. Scott Huffmon, director of the Winthrop Poll, noted that the perspectives on the nation’s direction are influenced heavily by the respondents’ political affiliations. Among the survey participants, 47% believe that the United States is moving in the right direction, contrasted by 44% who think South Carolina is on the correct path. This highlights a cautious optimism about the state’s future when compared to the national climate.
In addition to assessing opinions on Trump, the poll also explored views on technology entrepreneur Elon Musk. Findings revealed that 45% of South Carolinians hold a negative perception of Musk, while only 35% view him positively. Further, Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) achieved a modest positive approval rating of 37% among those surveyed.
The poll also touched on economic issues, revealing that 39% of respondents support implementing tariffs on economic rivals, such as China, while they oppose tariffs against allied nations, including Canada. In response to upcoming potential tariffs, a quarter of participants indicated they have begun stocking up on items they suspect may increase in price.
On a state level, Governor Henry McMaster’s performance has garnered approval from nearly 60% of South Carolinians. However, due to term limits, Governor McMaster will not be eligible to run for re-election. As attention turns to the upcoming 2026 elections, Nancy Mace, the representative for South Carolina’s 1st Congressional District, and Alan Wilson, the current Attorney General, are recognized as the most familiar potential candidates by the public. Over half of those polled reported being acquainted with Mace, while 39% recognized Wilson, indicating a growing familiarity with key political figures in the state.
These insights from the Winthrop University poll illustrate the complexities of voter sentiment in South Carolina, reflecting broader national patterns of division on key issues. The survey results not only provide a snapshot of opinions on current political figures but also reveal potential economic concerns that could impact public behavior and decision-making leading up to future elections.
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Additional Resources
- Spectrum Local News: Trump Polling in South Carolina
- Fox Carolina: South Carolinians’ Views on Trump’s 100 Days
- WCNC: Approval Ratings for Trump in South Carolina
- Washington Post: Post-Election Polling Insights
- Fox Carolina: Who South Carolinians Favor for 2024 Election
- Wikipedia: Politics of South Carolina
- Google Search: Donald Trump South Carolina
- Google Scholar: Trump Polling South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Donald Trump
- Google News: Donald Trump South Carolina Poll
