A recent Reuters/Ipsos public opinion survey indicates deep divisions and growing anxiety among Americans regarding the temperament of President Donald Trump.

Concerns Across the Political Spectrum

The scrutiny comes during a period of heightened geopolitical tension, marked by ongoing military conflict with Iran and a public disagreement with Pope Leo XIV. The data reveals unease even within the Republican Party regarding the President’s recent behavior and perceived mental sharpness.

Public Perception of Temperament

Only 26 percent of the general population describes President Trump as even-tempered. Within the Republican Party, 53 percent defend his temperament, but a notable 46 percent acknowledge a lack of composure, demonstrating a fracture in party unity.

Conversely, the Democratic Party largely expresses skepticism, with only 7 percent viewing the President as steady.

Deteriorating Mental Acuity

The survey also explored perceptions of cognitive health, finding that 51 percent of Americans believe President Trump’s mental sharpness has declined in the past year. This includes 14 percent of Republicans, over half of independents, and 85 percent of Democrats.

Social Media Outbursts and Favorability

These concerns were fueled by aggressive social media posts where the President threatened Iranian infrastructure and launched personal attacks against Pope Leo XIV, labeling him as weak on crime and misguided. These outbursts appear to have impacted his favorability rating, which currently stands at 36 percent.

Pope Leo XIV, in comparison, enjoys a 60 percent favorability rating.

Approval of Military Strikes and Economic Impact

As the conflict with Iran contributes to inflationary pressures and rising gas prices, only 36 percent of the public approves of the ongoing military strikes. The poll, based on a sample of 4,557 adults, highlights a nation grappling with the consequences of foreign conflict and concerns about its leadership’s stability since early 2025.