Chart Shows American Pessimism Over Economy Hitting Record High
Summary
A recent Fox News poll shows that 70% of Americans believe the economy is getting worse, matching a record high first seen in 2023. This rising economic worry affects voter attitudes as the country approaches the 2026 midterm elections, challenging President Donald Trump’s messages about the economy.Key Facts
- The poll surveyed 1,001 registered voters from April 17-20, 2026, with a margin of error of plus or minus 3 points.
- Seven in ten Americans feel the economy is worsening, while only 26% think it is improving.
- Economic pessimism now equals the highest level recorded in more than 20 years, first reached in April 2023.
- Personal financial struggles with groceries, gas, health care, and housing are driving negative feelings about the economy.
- The percentage of voters seeing gas prices as a major problem nearly doubled from 33% in September 2025 to 60% in April 2026.
- About 43% of Americans say economic issues are the most important challenge facing the country.
- Economic pessimism has remained high for over two years, unlike past economic downturns which showed shorter bursts of concern.
- Pollsters note growing political polarization makes it hard for some voters to believe that President Trump’s economic policies are effective.
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