Global Opinion of U.S. Plummets Under Trump as China Gains Favor Worldwide

 

Trump Takes a Hit as Global Polling Reveals America's Reputation Has Tanked—While China Surges

Donald Trump has just been dealt another blow, as new international polling data shows America's global standing has plunged under his leadership—while China’s image has sharply improved.

According to data from Morning Consult, U.S. net favorability has plummeted from +20 to -1.5 since Trump’s rise. In a twist rich with irony, China—Trump’s favorite punching bag—has seen its global rating climb from negative territory to a solid +8.8. So much for being "tough on China." Instead, Trump is handing Beijing a global advantage on a silver platter.

Much of China’s rebound began after Trump’s ill-conceived “Liberation Day” tariff announcement, where he effectively launched a trade war not just with China, but with much of the world. The fallout was swift. According to Morning Consult’s political intelligence lead, Jason McMann, the "overwhelming majority of countries" surveyed—41 in total—have seen their views of the U.S. sour dramatically under Trump.

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And honestly, who could be surprised? Trump's erratic policies and unpredictable outbursts have made the United States seem like an unreliable, unstable partner. While many global citizens remain wary of China’s authoritarian government, they also recognize that Beijing doesn't randomly impose economic chaos. Xi Jinping may be an autocrat, but he isn't capricious like Trump.

Only one country appears to have warmed to the U.S. under Trump: Russia. Given Trump’s ongoing deference to Vladimir Putin—even as Ukraine suffers under brutal invasion—this isn’t shocking.

This collapse in international trust isn’t just diplomatic—it’s economic. Declining global opinion of the U.S. is already impacting tourism, with fewer travelers choosing to spend their money here. The dollar’s value has also dipped, and American companies are starting to feel the pressure overseas.

“As views of the United States worsen, trade and investment opportunities for American firms doing business overseas may also diminish, as consumers shun the products and job opportunities they provide,” said McMann.

Once again, Trump’s reckless leadership isn't just damaging America’s image—it’s undermining its influence and economy on a global scale.