What's happened
A new Harris poll shows nearly half of Americans feel their financial security is worsening, with most believing the US is in a recession. Confidence has declined despite strong economic growth figures, highlighting deepening economic anxiety and partisan divides ahead of 2026.
What's behind the headline?
The poll underscores a significant disconnect between economic data and public sentiment. Despite positive growth reports, Americans feel increasingly insecure, driven by inflation, tariffs, and political polarization. The racial and gender gaps reveal that economic anxiety is unevenly distributed, with Black and Hispanic voters feeling the most pessimistic.
This divergence suggests that economic optimism promoted by policymakers and media does not resonate with everyday experiences, especially among lower-income groups. The persistent decline in consumer confidence signals a potential slowdown or recession, as expectations for income and job security remain subdued.
The political blame game intensifies, with Democrats increasingly attributing economic issues to government mismanagement, while Republicans focus on corporate practices. This polarization hampers consensus on solutions, risking further economic instability. The ongoing debate about affordability and inequality will likely shape policy discussions in the coming months, with the risk that public dissatisfaction fuels political volatility.
What the papers say
The Guardian reports that nearly half of Americans believe their financial security is worsening, with 57% perceiving a recession, despite strong economic growth figures. The Independent highlights that many voters prioritize economic concerns over immigration or crime, with 32% urging the president to focus on cost of living issues. AP News notes that consumer confidence has declined for 11 consecutive months, with inflation and tariffs remaining top concerns. These contrasting perspectives reveal a nation divided on economic realities versus political narratives, with polls showing declining approval of Trump’s handling of the economy and widespread public frustration.
How we got here
The US economy has experienced mixed signals recently, with strong growth figures contrasting sharply with widespread consumer pessimism. Polls indicate rising concerns over inflation, costs of living, and government handling, amid ongoing political debates over economic policy and immigration.
Go deeper
Common question
-
Why Is US Consumer Confidence Falling in 2025?
Despite claims of economic strength, many Americans are feeling uncertain about the future. Consumer confidence has been declining for five months, driven by rising costs and inflation. This trend raises questions about what’s really happening with the US economy and how it affects everyday Americans. Below, we explore the key issues impacting public trust and what it means for the country’s economic outlook.
-
Why Is Economic Anxiety Growing in the US in 2025?
Many Americans are feeling increasingly worried about the economy this year, despite political claims of strength. Rising costs, inflation, and job security are top concerns for voters, influencing both public opinion and upcoming elections. But what exactly is causing this economic anxiety, and how might it impact the political landscape? Below, we explore the key questions shaping economic and political discussions in 2025.
More on these topics
-
Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
-
Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. is an American politician who is the 46th and current president of the United States. A member of the Democratic Party, he served as the 47th vice president from 2009 to 2017 and represented Delaware in the United States Senate