While a recent Pew Research Center survey found 41% of Americans rate the overall economy as good or excellent, many of them do not yet credit President Donald Trump, with 49% saying his policies have not had much impact on economic conditions. By comparison, during President Barack Obama’s first year, only 8% viewed the economy as good or excellent and 42% said his policies did not have any impact.
That said, it is good news for Mr. Trump that an increasing number of Americans have a positive outlook of the job situation, with 50% saying there are plenty of jobs available in their communities. This is the highest positive sentiment on local job availability in the 17 years Pew has asked the question. Since June 2016, this number has increased seven points (from 43% to 50%), and it has dramatically improved from the first few years of the previous Administration when it hovered around 10%.
However, Americans remain worried about the rising cost of living. Today, 49% say their family income is falling behind the cost of living, compared to 40% who say their income is staying about even and 9% who say it is going up faster. This is slightly improved from June 2016 and January 2015 when 53% and 55%, respectively, said their income was falling behind the cost of living.
If the president and Republicans deliver on tax reform and show voters it will benefit them, these numbers – especially concerns over cost of living – are likely to improve.
