The Blubber

CNN Poll: Economic Concerns Rise in Early Months of Trump’s Return

Concerns about the nation’s economy have grown in the first months of President Donald Trump’s second term, according to a new CNN poll conducted by SSRS. Few Americans believe his policies have improved economic conditions, and 55% say his federal spending cuts will hurt the economy.

Americans are evenly split on the future of the economy: 49% expect good conditions a year from now, while 51% expect things to worsen. However, the share predicting a weaker economy has jumped 7 points since January, just before Trump took office. Wall Street jitters over Trump’s economic policies have led to market declines, and the president has sent mixed signals about the possibility of a recession.

Doubts About Trump’s Economic Impact

• 51% believe Trump’s policies have worsened the economy
• 28% say they’ve helped
• 21% see no impact

Trump’s approval rating on the economy—long seen as America’s top issue—matches his overall approval (45%), a shift from his first term, when his economic ratings were typically stronger than his presidency overall.

He receives similar marks for handling inflation (44%) and supporting the middle class (43%). However, his lowest rating is on tariffs (39%), reflecting public skepticism about his trade policies.

Mixed Signals on Economic Confidence

While some confidence indicators have risen, broader economic sentiment remains unchanged:

• 35% say the country is doing well (up from 29% in January)
• But only 28% say the economy is strong, unchanged from earlier in the year

Personal financial satisfaction has improved since mid-2023, with fewer Americans struggling with transportation and housing costs. However:

• 70% are changing grocery purchases to fit their budgets
• Two-thirds have cut back on extra spending, similar to 2022 levels

The data suggests Americans remain cautious about their financial outlook, even as some economic indicators show modest improvements.