Most Americans See Economy in Decline: Poll

Economic Pessimism Hits Yearly High

A new Economist/YouGov poll released Tuesday shows that 57 percent of Americans believe the U.S. economy is getting worse—the highest level of pessimism in over a year. The data highlights growing unease as the country contends with inflation, layoffs, and a prolonged federal government shutdown. Win McNamee-Pool via Imagn Images

Negative Outlook Ahead of Midterms

Analysts warn that declining consumer confidence could have political consequences heading into the 2026 midterms. Economic sentiment often influences policy debates and voter turnout, and experts note that perceptions of a weakening economy can shape the political landscape as much as economic data itself. Element5 Digial / Pexels

Poll Details and Context

According to YouGov’s Allen Houston, “both” the share of Americans who think the economy is improving (18 percent) and those who think it’s staying the same (21 percent) are “down from earlier this year.” The survey of 1,622 adults, conducted between October 10 and 13, carries a 3.5 percent margin of error. Only 4 percent of respondents were unsure.

The last time Americans reported such a grim outlook was May 2024, during former President Joe Biden’s administration, Houston told Newsweek. The White House / Wikimedia

Inflation, Jobs, and Health Care Top Concerns

Respondents listed inflation and prices, jobs and the economy, and health care as their most pressing issues. The poll follows another YouGov survey from early October in which 53 percent already believed the economy was worsening—a number that has climbed steadily as the shutdown continues. Engin Akyurt / Pexels

Shutdown Deepens Economic Strain

The ongoing federal government shutdown, now in its third week, has amplified public anxiety. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that the shutdown is “starting to affect the real economy. It’s starting to affect people’s lives,” citing its impact on federal workers and military pay. Josh Morgan / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Trump Defends Economic Record

President Donald Trump, responding to criticism on Tuesday, told reporters: “The last administration had the greatest inflation in the history of our country. And now, as you know, groceries are down, it’s all down.” Win McNamee-Pool via Imagn Images

Outlook: Uncertainty Persists

With the shutdown unresolved and inflation still above target, economic sentiment could deteriorate further. Analysts warn that prolonged government disruptions and trade tensions may deepen public pessimism—particularly among low- and middle-income Americans already feeling the most strain. Krisztian Kormos / Pexels