Despite concerns about economic damage from Donald Trump’s policies, the stock market has remained surprisingly strong, with the S&P 500 growing significantly in 2025. However, this growth is largely driven by a single sector, AI, raising concerns about a potential bubble. When compared to global competitors, the U.S. market has lagged, and the dollar has weakened. Furthermore, the long-term impact of Trump’s policies, such as the erosion of the rule of law and unpredictable regulations, are detrimental to sustainable economic growth.
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Recent polling data indicates a concerning trend for President Trump, revealing a decline in approval ratings among middle-class Americans. The Economist/YouGov polls show a drop in net approval from -10 in October to -17 in December, impacting those with incomes between $50,000-$100,000. This trend aligns with broader concerns over the economy, reflected in other national surveys and public opinion regarding affordability. With economic issues dominating the public’s focus, this shift in sentiment could significantly influence upcoming elections and the president’s political standing.
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Recent focus groups indicate a shift in sentiment among voters who previously supported Donald Trump. The groups reveal growing dissatisfaction with his handling of the economy, particularly regarding the cost of living, with many questioning his commitment to address inflation and viewing tariffs negatively. Furthermore, the focus groups highlighted concerns about Trump’s deportation policies, with some participants criticizing aggressive tactics and questioning the targeting of individuals without criminal records. These sentiments reflect broader trends observed in polling data, suggesting a decline in support across key demographics.
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The Unexpected Winner of Rising American Tariffs Is Mexico
Mexico, it seems, is unexpectedly thriving in the face of rising American tariffs, a situation that may surprise those who assumed the economic impact would be uniformly negative. Instead of being crippled by the trade barriers erected by the United States, Mexico is experiencing growth in its exports to the very country imposing those tariffs. It’s a bit like watching a chess game where a clever player uses their opponent’s moves to their own advantage, even though the moves were designed to hurt the player.
The explanation for this surprising twist lies in several key factors.… Continue reading
President Trump’s approval rating among working-class Americans has dropped to historic lows, with a recent poll showing only 31% approval among those earning $50,000 or less. This decline reflects concerns over persistent affordability challenges, including rising prices and a slowing labor market. These economic anxieties are particularly pronounced among lower-income households, contributing to a negative outlook on the country’s direction. With the economy potentially slowing, future economic reports will likely shape Americans’ perception of Trump’s economic policies.
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Consumer confidence in the U.S. decreased in December, reaching its lowest point since the implementation of tariffs, driven by anxieties about high prices and the effects of President Trump’s trade policies. The Conference Board’s consumer confidence index dropped to 89.1, with short-term expectations remaining stable but below a key recessionary marker. Concerns about prices and tariffs were prominent in the survey responses, while perceptions of the job market also declined, further contributing to the overall decrease in confidence.
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According to the Conference Board, consumer confidence in the economy declined in December, marking the fifth consecutive monthly drop and approaching levels seen when tariffs were implemented. Concerns over high prices and President Trump’s tariffs were significant factors, though short-term expectations for income and job markets remained stable but below levels that could signal a recession. Notably, assessments of the current economic situation plummeted, and perceptions of the job market also worsened, as indicated by a decrease in those saying jobs were plentiful and an increase in those saying jobs were hard to get. AP News reported that despite the overall pessimism, the proportion of those surveyed who thought a recession in the next year was unlikely grew.
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A recent Emerson College poll reveals a significant portion of the public, 36%, gave President Trump an “F” grade on his handling of the economy, representing the most common response. This economic dissatisfaction, with cost of living as a primary concern, could negatively affect the GOP’s prospects in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections. The survey also highlighted poor ratings in healthcare and affordability, despite better scores on immigration. Experts suggest that a worsening economic outlook could mirror historical trends where presidents with low approval ratings faced substantial losses in midterm elections.
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57 percent say Trump more responsible for the economy than Biden: This poll result, frankly, is a head-scratcher. It’s tough to wrap your mind around the fact that more than half the respondents place more economic responsibility on a former president, who hasn’t been in office for a considerable amount of time, over the current one. The immediate reaction is often disbelief, bordering on bewilderment. How can this be? Is this a reflection of genuine economic understanding, or something else entirely?
The premise of this seems to stem from a fundamental misunderstanding of the current political and economic reality. The arguments frequently point out that with the Republican party holding the House, Senate, and formerly the presidency during Trump’s tenure, any economic downturn or challenge should be laid at their feet.… Continue reading
In a recent primetime address, President Trump touted his economic record, despite growing concerns about the cost of living among Americans. The president’s speech, delivered at a rapid pace, focused on his plans’ success and included numerous unsubstantiated claims. Critics noted his delivery, with some observing the speech’s frenetic pace and tone, while others pointed out his seeming detachment from the public’s financial struggles. These claims came amidst reports revealing a decline in the president’s approval rating for his handling of the economy, as many Americans struggle with basic expenses, while unemployment rates rise.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood