Even for a man who’s seen it all, this week must feel heavy.

Donald Trump’s approval rating has fallen to its lowest point since returning to the White House. After months of political battles, shutdowns, and headlines that never seem to end, new polls show that only 37 percent of Americans approve of his leadership — a sharp reminder of how divided the country remains.

Just a year ago, his MAGA movement roared with confidence. But recent local elections have shaken that momentum. In New York, progressive candidate Zohran Mamdani won the mayoral race despite Trump’s backing of Andrew Cuomo, leaving many Republicans wondering where their once-unbreakable base has gone.

Still, Trump remains defiant. “It’s been the best nine months of any presidency,” he told supporters in Miami — his signature confidence undimmed. Yet behind the optimism, a record-breaking government shutdown has left thousands of Americans without pay, and Washington locked in bitter deadlock. Both parties are pointing fingers. The people, meanwhile, are growing tired.

Politics may shift like the wind, but one truth never changes — every leader’s greatest test comes when the applause fades.