By John Q. Hosedrinker 
A recent Yahoo/YouGov poll indicates that a significant number of Americans believe President Trump’s actions have raised prices rather than lowered them, with a nearly two-to-one ratio reflecting this sentiment. The survey also reveals more Americans blame Trump for inflation compared to his predecessor. The poll, conducted with 1,684 U.S. adults, also shows disapproval of his handling of the cost of living and the economy, along with a drop in consumer sentiment. Additionally, his implementation of import tariffs received low scores, with most respondents believing they have done more harm than good in the short and long term.
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Americans are clearly voicing their concerns: a new poll indicates that a significant majority, nearly two-to-one, believe that Donald Trump’s actions during his time in office have done more to raise prices than lower them. This sentiment reflects a growing frustration among many, grappling with the rising cost of everyday essentials.
The evidence points towards policies that contributed to increased costs. Tariffs, for example, which were a key part of his trade strategy, directly inflate prices on imported goods. This, in turn, impacts consumer prices across a range of products. The economic reality is that tariffs are essentially taxes paid by consumers, making goods more expensive at the checkout counter.
The narrative of “lower prices” simply doesn’t align with the lived experiences of many Americans. It’s easy to see the disconnect. The cost of groceries, gas, and even everyday household items like frozen vegetables has risen. Some businesses have been forced to resort to “shrinkflation,” offering less product for the same or even a higher price, further adding to the squeeze on household budgets.
It’s interesting to consider that those same people who previously dismissed warnings about tariffs being passed onto consumers are now facing the repercussions. The story has changed, with some now suddenly expressing concern about “corporate greed” and the impact of “shrinkflation.” It’s almost as if a different economic reality is being accepted now that Trump’s policies threaten higher costs.
The issue goes beyond just individual policies. Some would also say that the blame games that have gone on, specifically the constant finger-pointing toward the current administration, often miss the bigger picture. The economic challenges we face are a complex mix of global factors, including a global pandemic, supply chain disruptions, and government spending that contribute to inflation.
This poll result also reflects something else: the perception that Trump’s policies don’t address the core economic problems that people are struggling with. While he may make promises about fixing things “on day one,” his administration’s actions have had the opposite effect. Adding to the national debt, pursuing trade wars, and weakening relationships with allies aren’t exactly recipes for a stable, affordable economy.
It seems to come down to priorities. There’s a disconnect between the rhetoric of “making America great again” and the practical realities of rising costs. His priorities include significant tax breaks for corporations and wealthy individuals, and spending on national security, that don’t seem to offset the costs to consumers.
The reality, according to many, is that wealth is redistributed upwards, further exacerbating the financial pressures on ordinary Americans. Actions like increasing the national debt, promoting the appointment of corporate cronies and plutocrats, and what some consider a kleptocratic agenda do little to address the real economic hardships faced by many.
The response from the American public speaks volumes. A significant portion of the electorate doesn’t believe that Trump’s policies have made their lives more affordable. This polling data is just a snapshot, but it reflects a growing sense that the policies of the past have not translated into tangible benefits for the average American.