One year into his second term, Donald Trump’s promises of economic improvement have been met with mixed reactions from voters across the US. As voters reflect on the past year, they share their thoughts on whether the economy has improved and how Trump’s policies have affected their lives. While some see progress, others remain skeptical, citing high prices, job market difficulties, and rising inflation.
Rural Michigan Voter’s View: Prices Fall but Struggles Remain
Mary Anne Dagata, a 72-year-old Republican from Michigan, has seen some improvements in her rural area. After a difficult start to the year, including skyrocketing food prices, she now reports a significant decrease. “It’s much better now, it’s like night and day,” she says, noting the fall in food prices. However, she recalls the tough period earlier this year, where basic food items like eggs were priced outrageously, leading her to make difficult decisions about spending. “We had $11 eggs,” she shares.
The improvement in food prices has brought a sense of relief, but Dagata remains aware of the challenges many still face. While the economy has improved in her community, some feel left behind, especially in other areas of the country.
Learn about the impact of inflation and what’s next for prices here.
Minnesota Father Faces Rising Childcare Costs
Anthony Landaeta, a 33-year-old father from Minnesota, offers a different perspective on Trump’s economic progress in the US. As an independent voter with a young child, Landaeta was shocked by the high price of childcare, which costs about $25,000 per year. Despite both him and his wife working full-time—Landaeta as an engineer and his wife as an airline pilot—he struggles to keep up with inflation. “It feels like the price of everything is rising,” he says.
In addition to high childcare costs, Landaeta also mentions “shrinkflation,” which he believes has affected his purchasing power. “We bought baby formula, a 32oz bottle, and then a little later it came in a 24oz bottle. Same price, just less,” he adds. With a mixed view of Trump’s economic promises, Landaeta gives the president a 4 out of 10 for his economic handling.
Explore more about the state of inflation and its impact on families here.
Indiana Republican Talks Inflation and High Prices
Jim Sullivan, a 55-year-old Republican from Indiana, reflects on his experiences under Trump’s second administration. While inflation has reportedly decreased, Sullivan still faces rising prices, particularly for electricity and everyday goods. “I know inflation is down, allegedly, but prices for all kinds of other things are super high,” he says. Sullivan also questions whether Trump’s focus on immigration might be hurting the economy. Despite his support for Trump, he believes he was in a better economic position during the first term.
Sullivan continues to observe the effects of Trump’s policies and remains uncertain about whether the economy is on the right track. “There’s so many things that he could be doing,” he reflects.
Find out more on how inflation is affecting different sectors here.
Nebraska Voter Fears Foreign Policy’s Impact on Economy
Devynn De Velasco, 22, from Nebraska, has concerns about the long-term effects of Trump’s foreign policy on the economy. She feels that the president’s focus has shifted away from domestic economic issues, particularly after his recent foreign policy actions. “My husband and I are honestly worried about an economic collapse,” she says. De Velasco and her husband have been saving money in case of an economic downturn. “Politics and the economy are very much linked, so what our president does impacts the economy,” she explains.
De Velasco’s worries stem from Trump’s remarks about NATO and other international relations, which she fears could destabilize the economy. She remains uncertain about the future, with foreign policy concerns on the horizon.
Learn more about the economic consequences of Trump’s foreign policy here.
Maryland Voter Struggles with Job Market
Denise Demontagnac, a 21-year-old Democrat from Maryland, expresses frustration with the job market. Despite Trump’s promises of job creation, she has been unable to find stable employment since graduating from university. “It’s not that I haven’t applied for jobs. I’ve applied for jobs every single day. It’s the fact that people are not hiring,” she shares. Her experience stands in stark contrast to Trump’s claims of a booming job market, leading her to question the president’s economic narrative.
“I don’t see the data, I don’t see the proof,” Demontagnac says, casting doubt on Trump’s assurances.
Find out what’s really happening in the job market and where it’s headed next here.
Colorado Consultant’s Cautious View on Trump’s Economic Progress
Kai Christianson, a 30-year-old financial consultant from Colorado, has experienced marginal financial improvement but remains cautious. Christianson credits tax breaks for helping companies earn more, but he is not convinced that the economic progress will last. “Tax breaks have helped push earnings higher for companies and the stock market is doing well because of that,” he says. However, he believes that the policies have not created enough growth to outweigh rising costs. Christianson is also concerned about Trump’s interference with the Federal Reserve, worrying that it may undermine the independence of financial institutions.
Explore more about Trump’s economic policies and their effects on the Federal Reserve here.
As the 2026 election season approaches, voters are divided on Trump’s economic progress. While some see improvement, others remain frustrated with high costs, inflation, and job market struggles. With different perspectives across the country, Trump’s handling of the economy will continue to be a critical issue leading into the elections.
