A recent CBS News poll reveals widespread economic anxiety among Americans regarding President Donald J. Trump’s economic policies. The survey, conducted with 2,064 U.S. adults from May 13 to May 15, indicates that 65 percent of respondents believe his policies are making the U.S. economy worse in the short term and 50 percent view them as worsening the economy over the long term.
The poll also shows that 13 percent think President Trump is improving the economy in the near term, while 29 percent see positive long-term effects. Additional findings reveal that three-quarters of Americans feel their incomes are not keeping pace with inflation. Sixty-five percent describe the current economic climate as “uncertain,” and 63 percent rate the overall economy as “struggling”—compared to just 12 percent who believe it is “rebounding.”
The survey highlights heightened concerns over rising gas prices and geopolitical tensions, particularly in relation to Iran. A plurality of Americans believe the U.S.-Iran conflict has not been militarily or strategically successful, and an outright majority states it has not delivered economic benefits.
These economic anxieties have contributed to declining approval ratings for President Trump’s handling of inflation. Within the Republican Party, support for his economic policies has dropped by 11 percentage points since March. Currently, Republican approval of his management of inflation lags over 20 points behind their approval of his immigration policies and overall presidency.
The data suggests that perceptions of economic mismanagement could negatively impact Republicans heading into the November midterms, though a significant portion of Americans believes neither major party is offering viable solutions to address the cost of living.
