Donald Trump recently hinted that Jake Paul could one day move into politics. But what do Americans actually think about the influencer-turned-boxer?
The 79-year-old US president made the unexpected remark during a rally in Kentucky on Wednesday (March 11), which Paul attended. Speaking at Verst Logistics in Hebron, Trump surprised the crowd by suggesting that the 29-year-old might have a political future, before inviting him onto the stage.
“I’m going to make a prediction that you’ll be running for political office in the not-too-distant future,” Trump said, without specifying whether he meant a local role, a national position, or even a presidential bid.
He also made it clear he would support the move if Paul ever decided to pursue it, adding: “You have my complete and total endorsement.”
Trump went on to praise Paul’s podcast, describing it as “big stuff” and saying the boxer has “guts.”
When Paul took the stage, he spoke about the influence Trump has had on him. “What Mr. Trump has taught me is courage,” he said.
“We never back down from a fight, even if they’re much bigger than you—much, much bigger than you. I feel like the people here in Kentucky understand that.
“You’ve got that fight. You’ve got that swagger.”
What do Americans think of Jake Paul?
Data from the international polling and market-research company YouGov offers some insight into how Americans view Paul.
According to its “Fame & Popularity” tracker in the US, which measures recognition, favorability, dislike, and neutrality, Paul is widely known but not particularly well liked.
The survey, which included just under 2,000 respondents, found that around 69% of Americans say they are familiar with him. However, only about 19% have a positive opinion, while roughly 33% say they dislike him.
Overall, the results suggest that Paul is a highly recognizable yet polarizing public figure, with negative opinions outweighing positive ones.
Trump’s endorsement also comes at a time when public opinion of the president himself remains divided. A recent national poll by NBC—referenced by Trump—shows he holds a 41% favorability rating among registered voters, compared with 53% who view him unfavorably.
Despite that net-negative rating, the survey indicates Trump is still more popular than several figures often mentioned as potential candidates in the 2028 presidential race, including JD Vance, Marco Rubio, Kamala Harris, Gavin Newsom, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
