CBS News poll finds negativity on economy, job market and concerns about AI’s impact

Persistent Pessimism Surrounds the U.S. Economy and Job Market

Despite numerous advancements in AI and technology, doubts and concerns about the U.S. economy and job market continue to prevail. Negative ratings have been a constant for years, with a growing number of people expressing a belief that the economy is worsening.

Price fluctuations continue to be a significant factor in shaping public perceptions of the economy. The majority of individuals have observed a continuous rise in prices for the goods and services they purchase, leading them to anticipate further increases in the future.

Challenges in the Job Market

More than half of the population views the current job market unfavorably, marking a noticeable decline from six months ago when opinions were more mixed. This negative sentiment is partly fueled by uncertainties about future job prospects.

When assessing long-term trends in the job market, the general consensus is that the availability of good jobs has decreased. This perception is shared across different demographic groups, indicating a prevailing sense of stagnation in job growth.

Amidst discussions on the impact of AI on various industries, a prevailing skepticism exists regarding its effect on job availability. Many believe that AI will have a negative influence on job prospects in the coming decade, further contributing to economic concerns.

Impact of AI on the Economy

Overall, there is a prevailing belief that the development of AI and AI companies will negatively affect the U.S. economy. This sentiment is shared among various demographics, although younger individuals exhibit slightly less concern.

Despite varying income levels, a common observation is the rise in prices across the board. This trend contributes to the overall negative outlook on the U.S. economy, with wealthier individuals generally reporting a more favorable personal financial situation.

Overall, public sentiment towards the U.S. economy remains negative, with ongoing concerns about job market stability and AI’s impact. These findings reflect a broader unease about the direction of the economy and job opportunities.

This article is based on a CBS News/YouGov survey conducted with a nationally representative sample of 2,489 U.S. adults between September 30 and October 2, 2025. The margin of error for the survey is ±2.2 points.

Access the full survey results here