Gallup, a well-known polling organization, has decided to discontinue its long-standing tracking of presidential approval ratings in the United States, a practice it has maintained for approximately 88 years. This decision marks the end of a significant method of measuring public sentiment about U.S. presidents, which dates back to the administration of former President Harry Truman. The announcement comes at a time when current President Donald Trump has been vocal in his criticism of polls that reflect a decline in his popularity, insisting that the decision by Gallup is unrelated to any political pressures.

The Guardian, which reported on Gallup's decision, highlighted that recent surveys indicated Trump's approval rating had dropped to 36% as of December, representing one of the lowest points in his presidency. This decline is notable amidst an environment where Trump has criticized various media outlets for their negative portrayals and polling results, suggesting a heightened sensitivity to public opinion as he approaches critical re-election moments. The polling organization's assertion that this decision is not influenced by external pressure points to a significant shift in how public sentiment may be recorded in the future.

Furthermore, the issue of political pressure remains relevant, as Trump's confrontations with media entities have escalated, including threats of legal action against The New York Times for publishing results that showcased a drop in his approval ratings. This situation underscores the complicated relationship between political figures and public opinion measurement, illuminating the potential impacts that such decisions can have on the political landscape, particularly as Trump maintains a combative approach toward dissenting views in media and polling.