New Poll Finds “Perfect Storm” Brewing: Voters Frustrated with Economy, Fearful about the Future, and Fed Up with Inaction
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A new national survey of registered voters shows Americans are deeply dissatisfied with the state of the economy, driven by rising costs and financial pressure on households, and are looking for leaders who deliver results, not delaying progress.
At a time when many voters see a lack of leadership on cost-of-living challenges at the federal level, the findings offer a clear opportunity for leaders to meet the moment. Voters are not only frustrated by rising prices but also craving leaders who understand the realities of day-to-day costs and are focused on getting things done. With President Trump’s low approval ratings, Democrats have an opening to show they can respond to this environment and Americans’ frustrations in ways that the current federal leadership has not; however, findings that Americans see Democrats as equally or more extreme than Republicans offers a warning that they cannot take the public’s trust for granted.
The poll, conducted by Public Policy Polling from April 28–29, 2026, among 680 registered voters, highlights a clear disconnect between voters’ economic frustrations and the pace of action they see from elected officials. Across demographics and party lines, voters are feeling squeezed and want a stronger focus on affordability and action to address the issues they face.
Americans are struggling to stay afloat. 43% say they are falling behind economically, while just 13% say they are getting ahead. At the same time, 43% rate the economy as “poor,” including a striking 40% who say they are very dissatisfied with economic conditions, reflecting not just discontent, but increasing anger about rising costs.
Key Findings
Rising costs are to blame for voters frustrations
43% say they are falling behind economically, compared to 13% getting ahead
43% rate the economy as “poor”
40% say they are very dissatisfied with the economy — and 68% are somewhat or very dissatisfied overall
37% say inflation and affordability is the top issue facing the country
Groceries (29%) are the biggest cost pressure on households, followed by gas and energy (24%) and healthcare (16%).
Voters want leaders who get stuff done, not slow things down.
83% say it is very important that leaders “get things done”
58% prefer leaders who compromise to get results, vs. 35% who prefer sticking to principles
85% say leaders should work across the aisle more
Only 41% say being a consensus builder is very important
More voters view Democrats as extreme
41% say Democrats are more extreme, compared to 39% who say Republicans are more extreme
“This poll reveals an electorate contending with economic strain and uncertainty about the future," said Jim Williams, polling analyst at Public Policy Polling. “They want leaders who are fighting for them and who prioritize making progress over anything else. The President's low approval means opportunity for Democrats to step into a leadership void and there should be no question about the issues Americans want leaders to focus on.”
“Voters are telling us clearly that the economy isn’t working for them right now, and rising costs are hitting them where it matters most, from the grocery store to the gas station,” said Debbie Cox Bultan, CEO of the NewDEAL Forum.
“They want leaders who are focused on solving these problems and delivering real results. People are looking for urgency and action — not process or partisanship getting in the way.”
The survey also highlights growing concern about the impact of AI on jobs and communities — an emerging issue where voters see both risk and opportunity.
Voters are concerned about AI’s impact and want it to work for people
46% are very concerned that AI could replace or reduce jobs in their community
Just 12% say AI will mostly help people like them, while 32% say it will mostly hurt
A majority (52%) say AI will bring a mix of benefits and harms, reflecting uncertainty about its long-term impact
While many report AI is having little impact on their job today (50%), concern about its future impact is widespread
These findings point to a growing expectation that leaders will not only embrace innovation, but ensure new technologies create opportunity and protect workers.
Taken together, the findings point to a political environment where voters are under real economic pressure today while also looking ahead with uncertainty about the future. Across both challenges, they are demanding leaders who act with urgency, understand the realities people are facing, and deliver practical solutions that improve their lives.
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