A new CBS News poll shows deep concern among Americans about the state of the economy and growing dissatisfaction with President Donald J. Trump’s economic policies. The findings point to widespread anxiety over inflation, rising costs, and uncertainty about the country’s financial future as voters continue to struggle with everyday expenses.
According to the poll, 65 percent of Americans believe Trump’s policies are making the economy worse in the short term. Half of those surveyed also believe his policies will hurt the economy over the long term. By comparison, only 13 percent said the president’s policies are improving the economy in the short term, while 29 percent believe they will help over time.
The survey, conducted between May 13 and May 15 among 2,064 U.S. adults, paints a picture of a public increasingly uneasy about financial stability. Three-quarters of respondents said their incomes are failing to keep up with inflation, highlighting the ongoing pressure many households feel when paying for essentials like groceries, housing, and transportation. Meanwhile, 65 percent described the economy as “uncertain,” while 63 percent labeled it “struggling.” Just 12 percent believe the economy is currently “rebounding.”
Economic frustration appears to be tied not only to inflation but also to concerns about energy prices and international instability. Rising gas prices remain a major issue for voters, particularly as geopolitical tensions continue to escalate. Concerns surrounding Iran and broader conflict in the Middle East are contributing to fears about future economic disruption. Pluralities of respondents said they do not believe the Iran war has been militarily or strategically successful, while a majority said it has not been economically successful.
CBS Poll: % who say US economy is good
🟢 Oct 1998: 85% (highest)
🟤 Oct 2002: 42%
🔴 Oct 2008: 8% (lowest)
🟡 Oct 2014: 40%
🟢 Oct 2018: 70%
🟡 Oct 2020: 49%
🔴 Oct 2022: 33%
🔴 May 2026: 29% pic.twitter.com/1XlBnoL8rn— InteractivePolls (@IAPolls2022) May 17, 2026
The poll also suggests these concerns are beginning to affect Trump politically. Approval ratings tied to his handling of inflation have declined, including among Republican voters. Since March, Republican approval of Trump’s handling of inflation has reportedly dropped by 11 percentage points.
Support for his economic management now trails Republican approval of his handling of immigration and his overall presidency by more than 20 points.
The numbers could create challenges for Republicans ahead of the November midterm elections, especially if economic conditions fail to improve. Voters have consistently ranked inflation and the cost of living among their top concerns, and the latest data indicates many Americans remain unconvinced that current policies are providing relief.
At the same time, dissatisfaction is not limited to one party. The poll found that many Americans lack confidence in both Republicans and Democrats when it comes to addressing affordability and the broader cost-of-living crisis. A significant share of respondents said neither party is presenting meaningful or realistic solutions to the economic pressures facing working families.
