Half of Americans Say "Trump's Policies Make Finances Harder"... 75% Rate U.S. Economy C or Lower

Only 18% of Respondents Say "Financial Situation Has Improved"
37% Support "Trump's Economic Policies"

Fewer than one in five Americans believe their household finances have improved thanks to President Donald Trump. In contrast, 50% of respondents said that President Trump's policies are currently making their financial situation more difficult.

According to a public opinion poll conducted by CBS News in partnership with the polling agency YouGov and released on December 21 (local time), only 18% of respondents said their current financial situation is improving due to President Trump's policies. The survey was conducted over three days starting December 17, targeting 2,300 American voters.

A customer shopping at a market in Philadelphia. This photo is for illustrative purposes and is unrelated to the content. Photo by AP Yonhap News.

50% of respondents said that President Trump's policies are currently making things more difficult for them.

Only 37% of respondents said they support President Trump's economic policies. In particular, approval for his inflation policies stood at 34%, which is half the disapproval rate (66%). When asked, "How would you grade the current U.S. economy?" 75% gave a grade of C or lower.

24% of respondents gave a failing grade of F, while only 5% awarded an A grade.

President Trump has recently highlighted his economic achievements during his first year in office, especially in key swing states. He has shifted the blame for high inflation to the previous Joe Biden administration. However, in this poll, 47% of respondents said, "President Trump should bear more responsibility for the current U.S. economy." Only 22% said former President Biden is more responsible, while another 22% said both should be held accountable.

This survey also revealed some hope that the U.S. economy will improve at least somewhat next year, when the midterm elections will be held. When asked if they believe their financial situation will improve next year due to President Trump's economic policies, 27% responded positively. This is a 9 percentage point increase compared to the 18% who gave a positive assessment of their current financial situation.