A recent Yale University survey has revealed a significant disconnect between the policy preferences of American CEOs and the actions taken by former President Donald Trump during his term. The survey, conducted among a large sample of chief executive officers across various industries, highlights a widespread disapproval of specific policy decisions related to trade, immigration, and climate change.

The key finding of the survey centers around trade tariffs imposed during the Trump administration. A majority of CEOs expressed concerns that these tariffs negatively impacted their businesses by increasing costs and disrupting global supply chains. Furthermore, a substantial percentage of respondents voiced opposition to the administration's stance on immigration, arguing that restrictive policies hindered their ability to attract and retain talent, particularly in sectors reliant on skilled foreign workers. The survey also indicated a strong belief among CEOs that the U.S. should actively participate in international efforts to combat climate change, a position at odds with the Trump administration's withdrawal from the Paris Agreement.

Experts suggest that this divergence between CEOs and the Trump administration stemmed from fundamentally different perspectives on economic growth and global competitiveness. While the administration prioritized protectionist measures aimed at bolstering domestic industries, CEOs often emphasized the importance of free trade, open borders, and environmental sustainability for long-term prosperity.

Looking ahead, the survey data suggests that many CEOs are eager to see a shift towards more multilateral and collaborative approaches to policymaking. Whether the current administration can fully bridge this gap remains to be seen, but the Yale survey underscores the importance of understanding the perspectives of business leaders when formulating economic and social policies.