CNBC survey finds worsening economy and blame for Trump

• Trump's economic approval is deeply negative at 38% approve vs 60% disapprove (-22 net), his worst performance in his political career, while 68% disapprove of his handling of inflation
• 47% of Americans are cutting back on essentials (up 6 points since April), with the impact hitting lower-income households hardest: 60% of those earning under $30,000 reducing essential spending vs 35% of those over $100,000
• Support for military action against Iran dropped to 48% (from 53% in April), with Trump underwater even among non-MAGA Republicans (47% approve) on Iran handling, though Democrats' congressional advantage remains modest at just 4 points

Economic Pessimism Deepens as Trump Approval Ratings Fall, CNBC Survey Shows

The latest CNBC All-America Economic Survey reveals widespread economic anxiety among Americans, with President Trump facing significant approval challenges ahead of midterm elections.

Key Survey Findings:

• Sample: 1,000 adults nationwide, ±3.1% margin of error
• Economic pessimism: 61% of respondents pessimistic about current and future economy—highest since December 2023
• Optimism: Only 25% remain optimistic
• Future outlook: 41% expect conditions to worsen vs. 29% expecting improvement

Consumer Behavior Changes:

• 47% cutting back on essentials (food, medical care), up 6 points from April
• 67% reducing non-essential spending (dining, entertainment), up 5 points
• Sharp income divide: 60% of households earning under $30,000 reducing essential purchases vs. 35% of those earning above $100,000

Presidential Approval:

• Trump's overall approval: 40% (59% disapproval)
• Economic handling: 38% approve, 60% disapprove (net -22, worst in his career)
• Iran war handling: 35% approve, 63% disapprove
• Inflation handling: 31% approve, 68% disapprove

Political Landscape:

• Democrats hold only a 4-point advantage for congressional control, unchanged from April
• Democrats lead on top issues: economy (7 points), protecting democracy (3 points), healthcare costs (18 points)
• Republicans lead on immigration/border security by 22 points

Iran War Support Declining:

Support for military action against Iran dropped to 48% (from 53% in April), with 50% saying it's not worth it.

The survey reveals a deeply divided electorate locked into partisan positions despite economic concerns, suggesting neither party has established overwhelming electoral momentum.