Stress, uncertainty as economy views decline; many voice frustration with Trump’s economic approach, CBS News poll finds

The state of the U.S. economy is causing significant concern and stress among Americans, with feelings of security and contentment about finances on the decline compared to last year. People are increasingly pessimistic about the economy, with ratings hitting record lows not seen since 2023. The majority of Americans feel that their incomes are not keeping up with inflation, adding further strain to their financial well-being.

The uncertainty surrounding the economy is fueled by various factors, including rising gas prices and the ongoing conflict with Iran impacting the stability of the Strait of Hormuz. Many Americans feel that there is a lack of clarity about the situation in Iran, leading to heightened anxiety about the economic repercussions. Despite perceptions of military success in the conflict, there is skepticism about whether it is truly advancing U.S. strategic interests.

President Trump’s economic policies are facing criticism, with two-thirds of the country believing that his actions are making the economy worse in the short term. While some remain hopeful that his policies will improve the economy in the long run, the overall sentiment is frustration and anger towards his approach. The President’s approval ratings for handling inflation have declined, particularly among Republicans, who are also expressing concerns about his economic strategy.

On the political front, neither party is seen as effectively addressing the cost of living, with Democrats holding a slight edge in public perception. However, there is a significant portion of the population that believes neither party has a superior economic policy. Looking ahead, there are widespread concerns about job availability and the impact of artificial intelligence on employment opportunities.

Overall, the outlook for the U.S. economy is pessimistic, with many expecting a recession or slowdown in the near future. The prevailing sentiment is one of uncertainty and unfairness, with more Americans feeling worse about their economic prospects compared to previous generations. This data is based on a recent CBS News/YouGov survey conducted with a nationally representative sample of U.S. adults.