A new exclusive opinion poll has revealed a deepening sense of financial pessimism among the American public, with nearly half reporting their economic security is deteriorating and a growing number pointing the finger at the White House.
Stark Numbers Reveal Economic Anxiety
The survey, conducted for the Guardian by The Harris Poll between 11 and 13 December 2025, presents a challenging picture for President Donald Trump. It found that 45% of Americans believe their personal financial security is getting worse, compared to just 20% who feel it is improving. Furthermore, a significant 57% of respondents are under the impression the United States is currently in a recession, a notable increase of 11 percentage points since a similar poll in February.
This gloomy public sentiment persists despite official economic data contradicting a recession, defined by two consecutive quarters of negative growth. Recent figures showed stronger-than-expected growth for the summer months. The prevailing pessimism is attributed to a year of economic upheaval, marked by the impact of Trump's tariffs, widespread government layoffs, and a stringent crackdown on immigration.
Political and Demographic Divides Deepen
The poll underscores profound divisions along political, gender, racial, and income lines. Democrats are almost twice as likely as Republicans to say their finances are worsening (52% vs 27%). Perhaps more concerning for the GOP, which faces a battle to retain its Congressional majority, is Trump's failure to win over independents. A majority of independents (54%) report worsening finances, a 9-point rise since February, and 58% believe the nation is in recession.
Blame for rising prices is increasingly directed at the government. When asked who was most responsible, 76% of Democrats and 72% of independents pointed to government management of the economy, representing sharp increases from earlier in the year. Republicans were more split, with 55% blaming the government and 45% citing corporate practices.
Women, Hispanic Voters, and Low-Income Americans Hit Hardest
The data reveals particular strains on key demographic groups. Women are significantly less confident than men, with 62% believing a recession is underway. Stark racial gaps also exist, with around two-thirds of Black and Hispanic voters holding this view, compared to 52% of white voters.
The poll also highlights what economists term a 'K-shaped economy', where prosperity is not evenly shared. Among Americans earning less than $50,000 annually, 59% say their financial security is worsening. In contrast, only 37% of those making over $100,000 feel the same, underscoring a divide exacerbated by a booming stock market that primarily benefits the wealthy.
This survey, conducted online among a nationally representative sample of 2,180 US adults, signals significant headwinds for the Trump administration as it attempts to rally public confidence in its economic stewardship.
