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Poll Finds Economic Dissatisfaction; Trump's National Address Draws Criticism

2025-12-22

The BareStory

A national poll conducted from December 17-19 indicates that most Americans hold negative views of the economy, citing concerns over the cost of living. The survey of 2,300 U.S. adults, which took place after a presidential address on December 17, found that a majority of respondents described affording basics like food and housing as difficult.

According to the poll, more people hold President Trump responsible for the economy than former President Joe Biden. While the president’s approval ratings on the economy and inflation have increased slightly from November, a majority of people reportedly feel he describes conditions as better than they actually are. The poll also found that two-thirds of Americans believe his policies favor the wealthy over the middle class.

The president’s address, during which he claimed to have brought the country back from "the brink of ruin," drew a strong reaction from former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. In remarks that aired Sunday, Pelosi called the speech "ridiculous" and a "demonstration of his mental incapacity."

A White House spokesperson, Davis Ingle, responded by calling Pelosi "unhinged." Ingle also claimed she would be remembered for "enriching her family through corrupt stock trading." The poll also noted that on other issues, the president's approval on immigration is higher than his approval on the economy, with most respondents saying border crossings have decreased this year.

Left Perspective

  • A majority of Americans report experiencing economic hardship and dissatisfaction.
  • The president is perceived as out of touch with the economic reality faced by citizens.
  • The administration's policies are seen as favoring the wealthy.

Right Perspective

  • The president's approval on key economic issues is showing signs of improvement.
  • The administration has overseen a successful reduction in border crossings.
  • The president’s team is defending his record against what it characterizes as unhinged attacks.

How it may affect me

As a U.S. reader:

• Your household budget may remain strained, as a majority reports difficulty affording essentials like food and housing due to high living costs.

• Future economic policies could shift, as two-thirds of the public believe current measures favor the wealthy over the middle class.

• The perception that border crossings have decreased may influence future immigration enforcement strategies and related government funding.

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