Americans still feel worse about the economy than at almost any point in modern history
American economic sentiment remains historically low as voters confront the holiday season amid persistent affordability concerns. A Harris poll indicates that 61% of respondents believe the country is in a recession. Meanwhile, 65% of independents view the economy negatively. White House economist Kevin Hassett points to inflation and mortgage rates as the primary drivers of this pessimism. This negative outlook persists despite positive indicators in capital spending and factory construction.
Listen to Live Briefing
Real-time synthesized voice briefing · Live Feeds Desk
- ✓ A Harris poll shows 61% of people believe the country is in a recession.
- ✓ 65% of independents view the economy as worse.
- ✓ White House economist Kevin Hassett attributes negative sentiment to inflation and mortgage rates.
- ✓ The United States population exceeds 341 million.
What changed
Public frustration over economic conditions coincides with emerging political vulnerabilities for Republicans in traditionally safe states.
Live updates
-
US Economic Anxiety Persists Amid Political and Financial Stress
American economic sentiment remains historically low as voters confront the holiday season amid persistent affordability concerns. A Harris poll indicates that 61% of respondents believe the country is in a recession. Meanwhile, 65% of independents view the economy negatively. White House economist Kevin Hassett points to inflation and mortgage rates as the primary drivers of this pessimism. This negative outlook persists despite positive indicators in capital spending and factory construction.
Why it matters
Economic confidence has dropped to a 15-year low, reflecting broad public dissatisfaction with current financial conditions and administrative management. The United States maintains a population exceeding 341 million across its federal republic structure. Voter sentiment remains strained as political figures face mounting challenges in traditionally reliable regions.
What is confirmed
- A Harris poll shows 61% of people believe the country is in a recession.
- 65% of independents view the economy as worse.
- White House economist Kevin Hassett attributes negative sentiment to inflation and mortgage rates.
- The United States population exceeds 341 million.
Still unconfirmed
- Many voters in Kansas are fuming over diesel prices and Republican rule during the midterm crisis.
What to watch next
- Upcoming midterm election results in Kansas
- Changes in inflation and mortgage rates
- Future consumer confidence polling data
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (6)
- en.wikipedia.org — United States - Wikipedia
- www.justwatch.com — The Americans - streaming tv show online - JustWatch
- en.wikipedia.org — Americans - Wikipedia
- simple.wikipedia.org — Americans - Simple English Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
- www.definitions.net — What does americans mean? - Definitions.net
- www.dailymail.com — It's the last state anyone would expect to go blue. Now, after 100 years of Republican rule,Trump faces a midterm crisis in Kansas
-
US Consumer Sentiment Hits 15-Year Low Amid Economic Pessimism
American confidence in the economy has dropped to a 15-year low as voters prepare for the holiday season. A Harris poll shows 61% of people believe the country is in a recession, while 65% of independents view the economy as worse. White House economist Kevin Hassett attributes this sentiment to inflation and mortgage rates, despite indicators of strength in factory construction and capital spending. These trends coincide with rising affordability concerns and a decline in confidence regarding the current administration's economic management.
Why it matters
Persistent inflation and high borrowing costs are shaping public perception regardless of employment data. This sentiment arrives as the US approaches November elections, where economic performance is a primary concern for voters. The disconnect between macroeconomic indicators and consumer feeling suggests a long-term shift in public expectations.
What is confirmed
- Consumer sentiment has reached its lowest point in 15 years.
- Inflation and mortgage rates are negatively affecting American economic confidence.
Still unconfirmed
- Capital spending and factory construction currently signal economic strength.
What to watch next
- The Q3 retail and restaurant investment print.
- November election results.
- Updated federal inflation data.
confidence 85%Sources used for this update (7)
- www.foxbusiness.com — White House economist Hassett says inflation masks a spending ...
- www.theguardian.com — Key US voters say economy is getting worse ahead of midterms ...
- www.europesays.com — The Iran War Has Changed the World Forever – Foreign Policy
- www.jns.org — France’s Jews have a new fear: Can the state still protect them?
- www.readtangle.com — The Texas Senate race.
- finance.yahoo.com — Consumer sentiment hits 15-year low ahead of holiday season
- www.ibtimes.sg — Nearly Half of Americans Say They're Worse Off Under Trump ...
-
Americans' Inflation Expectations Rise as Federal Reserve Warns of Pain
Consumer pessimism deepens across the United States as Americans anticipate sustained high inflation over the coming year. Federal Reserve officials express growing concern that consumers are growing accustomed to stubbornly elevated prices following years of persistent inflation. This enduring negative outlook persists despite low unemployment levels and an absence of a confirmed recession. Only about 24% of Americans rate the economy as good or excellent, while over 70% evaluate the government's economic performance negatively as November elections approach.
Why it matters
The Federal Reserve faces mounting challenges as public inflation expectations move in the wrong direction, complicating efforts to stabilize prices. Four years after former Chair Jerome Powell warned that controlling multi-decade high inflation would carry a cost, households continue to report deep frustration driven by the rising cost of living. This persistent economic dissatisfaction threatens to impact the political landscape, with the Republican party potentially facing consequences at the polls in November.
What is confirmed
- U.S. inflation has stayed elevated for years, raising concern at the Federal Reserve that consumers may come to expect stubbornly high prices.
- Only about 24% of Americans rate the economy as good or excellent, reflecting long-term pessimism following the pandemic.
Still unconfirmed
- Over 70% of Americans rate the government's economic policy negatively.
What to watch next
- November election results to measure the political impact of the souring economy on the GOP.
- Upcoming Federal Reserve policy responses to stubbornly high inflation expectations.
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (6)
- www.cnn.com — Fed officials are warning of more pain. Many Americans are...
- finance.yahoo.com — Americans’ Inflation Expectations Hit Highest Level Since ...
- www.cnbc.com — U.S. inflation stays high for years, worrying Fed officials
- www.armstrongeconomics.com — Americans Are Losing Faith in the Economy - Armstrong Economics
- www.cnn.com — GOP Senate candidates in competitive races report shockingly small fundraising numbers
- finance.yahoo.com — Over 70% of Americans rate the government's economic ...
-
US Consumer Sentiment Slumps Amid Cost of Living Pressures
United States consumer sentiment dropped further in early October. Households report deep frustration over the economy, driven by the rising cost of living linked to the Middle East conflict. This negative outlook persists despite low unemployment levels and an absence of a confirmed recession. Economists continue to dismiss these mood surveys as reliable predictors of consumer spending, creating a stark disconnect where Americans maintain spending habits while rating the economic situation as poor. Only about 24% of Americans rate the economy as good or excellent, reflecting long-term pessimism that has endured for six years following the pandemic.
Why it matters
Public sentiment remains heavily depressed despite strong traditional economic indicators. Households cite stagnant wages, debt concerns, and high prices as primary drivers of their ongoing financial pessimism.
What is confirmed
- US consumer sentiment slumped further in early October.
- Only about 24% of Americans rated the economy as good or excellent.
Still unconfirmed
- The rising cost of living is directly caused by the Middle East conflict.
What to watch next
- Future monthly updates on US consumer sentiment indexes
- Data on whether high spending habits persist alongside low confidence
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (6)
- finance.yahoo.com — US consumer sentiment near record low as frustration over economy...
- www.postcourier.com.pg — Drum – Tidbit
- jen.jiji.com — Energy Bills Decree, EU confirms: close to agreement with Italy
- www.moneylion.com — Americans Feel Worse About the Economy Than Ever - MoneyLion
- www.thefreefinancialadvisor.com — Americans Are Spending More but Feeling Worse — 6 Numbers ...
- jen.jiji.com — Gattuso receives the Euro Mediterranean Excellence Award: "Young people must be listened to, no excuses at Lazio"
-
Americans' economic sentiment remains near historic lows
Despite strong economic indicators, many Americans continue to feel pessimistic about the economy, citing high prices, stagnant wages, and concerns about debt. A recent Pew Research Center survey found that only about 24% of Americans rated the economy as 'good' or 'excellent'. Consumer sentiment has remained depressed six years after the pandemic, with economists dismissing mood surveys as spending predictors.
Why it matters
The disconnect between economic data and public sentiment has significant implications for policymakers, particularly with midterm elections approaching. President Trump has been promoting his economic record, but many Americans blame him for current economic conditions. The Federal Reserve has been raising interest rates to combat inflation, which remains a major concern for consumers.
What is confirmed
- Only about 24% of Americans rated the economy as 'good' or 'excellent' in a recent Pew Research Center survey.
- Consumer sentiment remains stubbornly depressed six years after the pandemic despite solid economic indicators and heavy spending.
- Seventy-seven months of unbroken economic expansion has not translated to improved public sentiment.
- Researchers found that while wealth disparities narrowed somewhat, the ability to meet debt payments deteriorated significantly.
Still unconfirmed
- The current period is described as an economic boom by some reports, but this has not been corroborated by multiple sources.
What to watch next
- The Federal Reserve's decision on interest rates
- Upcoming economic data releases
- Midterm election results and their impact on economic policy
confidence 80%Sources used for this update (11)
- Phys.org — The economy is resilient: Why do many Americans feel differently? An expert explains
- www.archyde.com — Americans feel more and more glum, data shows. Economists are ...
- www.hollywoodreporter.com — Daily Edition
- finance.yahoo.com — As Trump Tries to Sell His Economy, Americans’ View of It ...
- capitaldigest.com — Consumer Sentiment vs Spending: Why Americans Stay Glum
- 247wallst.com — The U.S. Economy Has Grown for 77 Straight Months - So Why ...
- www.cnbc.com — Americans' debt problems are flashing a warning not seen ...
- www.newsweek.com — Americans’ Economic Fears Surge Ahead of Midterm Elections
- finance.yahoo.com — Americans’ feelings about the economy continue to worsen
- nul.org — Black America Is Already In A Recession | National Urban League
- jen.jiji.com — Pope Leo, pulmonologist: "Circumscribed operable lung nodule, intervention is often definitive"
-
US Economic Confidence Drops Amid Iran War and High Prices
American confidence in the economy deteriorated this month, reaching its lowest point in modern history. Consumers report growing pessimism driven by elevated prices for fuel, essential services, and general merchandise. Stagnant wages and the ongoing war in Iran further weigh on public sentiment. While some reports describe the current period as an economic boom, the lived experience of citizens remains negative. Federal Reserve Minneapolis President Neel Kashkari recently stated that inflation remains too high despite previous efforts to stabilize the economy.
Why it matters
Consumer sentiment is now at its second-lowest level recorded. This decline occurs as the U.S. prepares for midterm elections and manages geopolitical instability. The gap between macroeconomic indicators and consumer perception suggests a disconnect in how economic growth is felt by the public.
What is confirmed
- Americans' confidence in the economy deteriorated this month.
- Consumers cited surging prices for fuel, general merchandise, and essential services as reasons for their pessimism.
- Wages remain stagnant amid the ongoing war in Iran.
- Minneapolis Fed President Neel Kashkari stated inflation is still too high.
What to watch next
- Midterm election results regarding economic policy
- Federal Reserve updates on inflation targets
- Changes in fuel price trends linked to the Iran war
confidence 95%Sources used for this update (14)
- time.com — Read the Full Transcript of Donald Trump’s 2026 Interview With TIME
- jen.jiji.com — Sandei (Almaviva): "The real challenge of AI is transforming it into value"
- abcnews.com — Americans growing more pessimistic about the economy as ...
- www.pbs.org — The Spiritual Quest
- www.cnbc.com — Fed's Kashkari says inflation is 'still too high' even after ...
- jen.jiji.com — Woman dies of pneumonic plague in Siberia, worked in laboratory: 200 in quarantine
- jen.jiji.com — Ronaldo, will it be goodbye with Portugal? The president and Jesus: "It's all a misunderstanding"
- jen.jiji.com — Webuild: rises to 18.91% of Trevi Fin., raises OPA consideration to 5.165 euro per share
- www.vanityfair.com — The New Establishment 2026
- thedispatch.com — Can Democrats Flip the Senate?
- www.independent.co.uk — US consumers feel worse about economy now than during global ...
- finance.yahoo.com — Americans feel lousy about the economic boom
-
US consumer sentiment near record low
Americans' views on the economy remain near a record low, with consumer sentiment at its second-lowest level, as high gas prices, inflation, and stagnant wages continue to weigh on confidence.
Why it matters
The ongoing economic concerns may pose a risk to Republicans in the midterm elections. Elevated inflation has persisted for five years, affecting consumer confidence. The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index and The Conference Board's survey have both reported low confidence levels.
What is confirmed
- US consumer sentiment fell to its second-lowest level on record in September
- High gas prices further soured Americans' views of the economy
- The Conference Board's consumer confidence index tumbled 6.7 points to 81.9 in September
- Americans' confidence in the economy sank to the lowest level in more than a decade
Still unconfirmed
- potentially posing a risk to President Donald Trump and Republicans in the midterm elections
What to watch next
- The Conference Board's next consumer confidence survey
- University of Michigan's October consumer sentiment index
- midterm election outcomes
confidence 85%Sources used for this update (17)
- Bloomberg — Bond Selloff Fades as Oil Cools, Lifting Stocks: Markets Wrap
- Bloomberg.com — US Stock Futures Rise as Investors See Relief in Yields, Oil
- CNN — Americans still feel worse about the economy than at almost any point in modern history
- qz.com — University of Michigan consumer sentiment index, September 2026
- Yahoo Finance — Goldman Sachs says 'lower happiness' — not the economy — explains why consumer confidence hit its second-lowest level
- WSJ — Consumer Sentiment Ticked Lower in September
- Yahoo Finance — Consumer sentiment falls to 4-month low as concerns over inflation mount
- abcnews.com — Consumer sentiment drops near all-time low as prices weigh on shoppers
- The Hill — Consumer confidence dips in September amid inflation concerns
- KOMO — High-price concerns weigh on consumer sentiment, GOP midterm hopes
- The Hill — Consumer confidence hits 4-month low
- NBC News — Gas, mortgage rates and inflation send Americans’ view of the economy to near record lows
Community Sentiment: How do you assess this situation?
Voice your perspective · Real-time aggregated sentiment from the Live Feeds community