Economy Polling
Economy Polling 2026: Voter Sentiment & Issue Rankings
How Americans rate Trump’s economic performance — May 2026
54%
Disapprove Economic Handling
39%
Approve Economic Handling
#1 Issue
Economy/Cost of Living
67%
Worry About Tariffs Impact
Top Voter Concerns (May 2026)
| Issue | % Very Important | Who Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living/inflation | 78% | Democrats (+12 on handling) |
| Healthcare costs | 72% | Democrats (+18) |
| Housing affordability | 68% | Democrats (+9) |
| Tariffs and trade | 61% | Democrats (+15) |
| Immigration | 59% | Republicans (+11) |
| Abortion access | 57% | Democrats (+24) |
| Crime and public safety | 54% | Republicans (+8) |
| Climate change | 49% | Democrats (+31) |
Tariff Impact Polling
Trump’s 2025 tariff escalation (10-145% tariffs on Chinese goods, 10-25% on most other imports) has created significant economic anxiety. Polling consistently shows majority opposition to broad tariffs, with voters blaming Trump’s trade policy for price increases.
Key findings: 67% worry tariffs will raise their costs significantly. 58% believe tariffs will cause or worsen a recession. 54% say they have personally felt the impact of tariffs through higher prices. Only 34% believe tariffs will help American workers in the long run.