Polling News

Economic Anxiety

April 03, 2025

The latest CBS News poll showed Americans want President Donald Trump to focus more on the economy and less on tariffs. Moreover, fewer Americans believe Trump’s policies will make them financially better off than when he took office.

By The Numbers:

  • In January, 42% of Americans believed Trump’s policies would make them better off financially, compared to 28% who believed the Trump policies would make them worse off and 30% who thought their financial situation would remain the same. Today, only 23% of Americans believe Trump’s policies will make them better off financially, 42% believe the policies will make them worse off, and 35% believe there will be no change. 

  • Americans want Trump to put more focus on lowering prices instead of tariffs. Today 64% say the Trump Administration is not focusing enough on lowering prices. Just 7% say the Administration is not focusing enough on tariffs. Only 31% say the Administration is focusing the right amount on lowering prices while 55% say the Trump Administration is focusing too much on tariffs.  

The Bottom Line: While the Trump Administration gets high marks on its handling of illegal immigration, poll after poll shows deteriorating approval on Team Trump’s approach to the economy. The president promised to put American businesses first and create American jobs, but many voters are concerned with the costs for their groceries, utilities, clothing, transportation and all the essentials of life. The Administration’s messaging over tariff policy should take these concerns into consideration.  

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