Trump's Second-Term Approval Tops Predecessors in RealClearPolitics Comparison

A RealClearPolitics (RCP) poll average, highlighted on October 14, 2025, by political commentator Mike Netter, indicates that President Donald Trump's second-term job approval rating has surpassed those of former Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush at a similar juncture in their respective second terms. The comparison draws attention to the current political climate and public sentiment regarding the President's performance.

Mike Netter, a co-founder of the "Netter News" newsletter, shared the findings on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "> "New poll shows Trump is beating Obama and Bush, winning over Americans," and added, "According to the RealClearPolitics poll average, President Trump is presently outperforming former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama in terms of second-term job approval."

The RealClearPolitics average aggregates data from various national polls, offering a composite view of presidential approval. Reports from Breitbart and The Blaze further underscored this comparison, noting that at the same point in their second terms, George W. Bush's approval was around 39.5 percent in October 2005, while Obama's was approximately 44.41 percent in October 2013.

While this specific comparison shows Trump leading, broader analyses from outlets like USA Today and the New York Times in late October 2025 placed President Trump's overall approval rating in the mid-40s, with some indicating a net negative approval. CNN also reported Trump's approval in the low-40s, noting it does not approach the historical peaks of his predecessors' early terms.

The reported approval figures come as the nation continues to grapple with economic conditions and policy decisions. Mike Netter, known for his involvement in California politics and conservative activism, has consistently engaged in public discourse surrounding national leadership and policy. The poll average provides a specific benchmark for evaluating the current administration's standing relative to recent historical precedents.