WASHINGTON (AP) — A recent Associated Press-NORC poll highlights growing skepticism among Americans regarding economic recovery under President Donald Trump. Increasing doubts about job security are evident, as 47% of adults are 'not very' or 'not at all confident' they could find a good job, a significant rise from 37% in October 2023.
The survey sheds light on persistent worries surrounding inflation, particularly concerning essential expenses like groceries, housing, and healthcare. For many respondents, rising costs are a significant source of stress in their lives.
The findings point towards a potential warning sign for Republicans, as 36% of U.S. adults approve of Trump's handling of the economy, with only 71% of Republicans feeling positively towards his leadership—an alarmingly low approval rate that could impact upcoming elections.
Moreover, 36% of U.S. adults consider electricity costs a primary concern, amidst expectations of inflated billings due to new data centers for artificial intelligence. Personal accounts, such as that of Kevin Halsey, illustrate the tangible financial burden; his electricity bills ballooned from $90 to $300.
Trump’s economic narrative faces challenges as many households navigate financial precarity, with 68% labeling the economy as 'poor.' Only 12% of those surveyed feel they are 'getting ahead,' while a worrying 28% claim to be 'falling behind.'
As public anxiety mounts regarding economic stability and opportunities, it remains unclear how these sentiments will influence the political landscape in the lead-up to the next elections.
