Sentiment on Trump Slumps in Singapore
SensingSG Q4 2025 New Data Release
Singapore Stays Resilient Amidst Global Shifts
As 2025 draws to a close, Singapore finds itself at a unique geopolitical crossroads. The latest Q4 wave of SensingSG, the quarterly sentiment tracker from Blackbox Research, reveals a nation that is internally steadfast yet increasingly wary of external economic pressures. While domestic confidence remains remarkably high, a distinct "Trump Slump" has emerged in how Singaporeans view the United States' role in the region.
The Transatlantic Friction
At the start of 2025, 69% of Singaporeans expressed optimism that the second Trump Presidency would benefit the nation. One year later, that figure has receded to 57%. This decline is not merely a matter of personality but is rooted in tangible economic concerns. Specifically, 56% of Singaporeans believe that the current US administration’s tariff policies have actively harmed the local economy.
The data suggests a disconnect between the President’s projection of strength and the actual execution of policies. While respondents acknowledge successes in areas such as Middle East peace (31% success rate) and supporting US businesses (38% success rate), there is significant dissatisfaction regarding the global economy and relations with China. Consequently, 44% of Singaporeans now view the USA more negatively, with 52% holding a less favourable view of the President himself.
The LKY Benchmark
In contrast to the volatility of international relations, Singaporeans continue to look inward toward the foundational principles of their nation. A full decade after the passing of founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, his legacy remains the gold standard for governance. An overwhelming 86% of the population believe that his emphasis on meritocracy and multiculturalism is still central to the current government's ruling philosophy.
Furthermore, 54% of Singaporeans argue that Lee Kuan Yew’s legacy is more significant today than it was ten years ago. When asked which virtue today’s leaders should prioritise, respondents overwhelmingly identified long-term planning and foresight. This suggests that while the current administration maintains a 71% satisfaction rating on the Good Governance Meter, the public expects a continued commitment to the visionary pragmatism that defined the LKY era.
Domestic Stability and Economic Realities
Despite the "Trump Slump" and external trade frictions, domestic sentiment is characterised by a "steady hand on the tiller". 90% of Singaporeans believe the country is heading in the right direction, a figure that has remained unchanged throughout the year. Additionally, 86% rate local economic conditions positively, marking a 13-point improvement since early 2024.
However, this optimism is tempered by cost-of-living concerns. While National Defence and Security enjoy an 84% satisfaction rating, the Certificate of Entitlement (COE) and general cost of living remain primary sources of dissatisfaction, at 54% and 52% respectively.
As we move into 2026, the challenge for Singapore's leadership will be to maintain this domestic harmony while navigating an increasingly protectionist global environment.