Nearly half of Americans believe their financial security is deteriorating, according to an exclusive Guardian poll conducted by Harris, with twice as many saying their situation is worsening rather than improving. The poll, taken from 11 to 13 December among 2,180 US adults, reveals growing pessimism and increasing blame directed at the White House.
While the US is not technically in a recession, 57% of respondents think the economy is contracting—up 11 percentage points since February. This gloom persists despite stronger-than-expected summer growth figures, as Americans react to tariffs, mass government layoffs, and immigration crackdowns. Consumer confidence has fallen for five consecutive months, according to the Conference Board.
Political divisions remain stark: 52% of Democrats say their financial security is worsening, versus 27% of Republicans. Independents are particularly pessimistic, with 54% reporting a worsening situation—a 9-point rise since February—and 58% believing the country is in recession.
Demographic gaps are pronounced. Nearly two-thirds of women (62%) think the US is in recession, compared with 52% of men. Racial divides are also evident: 66% of Black and 67% of Hispanic voters believe the economy is in recession, versus 52% of white voters. Lower-income households are hardest hit; 59% of those earning under $50,000 report worsening financial security, up 13 points since February, while 37% of those earning over $100,000 say the same.
Blame for rising prices is increasingly pinned on the government. Among Democrats, 76% cite government management—a 17-point increase—while 72% of independents agree, up 14 points. Republicans are split: 55% blame the government and 45% blame corporate practices, a slight shift away from government focus.
