WASHINGTON (AP) — A growing number of Americans are expressing worries about their job security and rising living costs under President Donald Trump's administration. According to a recent Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs poll, nearly half of U.S. adults report being 'not very' or 'not at all' confident in their ability to find a good job if they needed one, a notable increase from just last year.
High prices for essentials including groceries, housing, and healthcare have become a major concern for households, exacerbated by rising electricity and fuel costs. The poll shows that 36% of adults consider their electricity bills a significant source of stress, while over half identify grocery costs as a major financial strain.
The survey reveals that since October 2022, public confidence in job security has dropped notably—from 36% to 21% of adults indicating they feel 'extremely' or 'very' confident in their job prospects. Additionally, 68% of those surveyed describe the economy as poor.
Trump's administration, which began with promises of economic revival, is now facing criticism as inflation remains a persistent issue, compounded by a mix of tariffs and federal job cuts. Despite these concerns, it's seen that among Republicans, 71% still hold a favorable view of Trump's economic approach, yet this is a relatively low turnout that could complicate upcoming electoral challenges.
Many respondents expressed their dissatisfaction with rising costs, linking them directly to Trump’s policies. Commentators note the disparities between economic indicators and public sentiment, indicating a growing disconnect.
The AP-NORC poll was conducted from October 9-13 with a sample size of 1,289 adults, providing critical insights into the current economic landscape amidst an uncertain political climate.