According to new polling highlighted by The National Desk, more Americans say they are cutting back on spending as frustration over inflation, fuel costs and the broader economy intensifies, with many placing blame on President Donald Trump’s policies.
The findings reflect growing economic unease across political and generational lines as rising gas prices and elevated living costs continue to strain household budgets. A recent CNN poll found that nearly 70% of voters believe a recession is likely within the next year, while 61% said they have reduced spending on groceries and 59% reported scaling back on entertainment and other nonessential purchases.
The latest consumer sentiment data paints a similarly bleak picture. The University of Michigan’s consumer sentiment index recently fell to one of its weakest readings in decades, while the Conference Board reported a decline in consumer confidence in May. Economists say Americans remain frustrated by stubborn inflation and higher borrowing costs, even as the stock market posts gains and unemployment remains relatively low.
Fuel prices have become a central source of concern for many consumers. Gas prices have climbed sharply in recent months following disruptions tied to the war in Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route for oil and gas. National average gasoline prices have hovered around $4.50 per gallon in recent weeks, according to AAA data cited in the report.
Polling also suggests dissatisfaction with the economy could pose political challenges for Republicans ahead of the midterm elections. More than three-quarters of Americans surveyed said Trump’s policies have increased their cost of living, including a notable share of Republican voters.
“Economic attitudes are a stubborn thing,” University of Dayton political science professor Chris Devine told The National Desk. “If gas prices were to come down because of a peace deal, people would hold on to that blame for the Trump administration, because they know that happened on his watch.”
