WASHINGTON — Concerns about rising prices are shaping how many Americans approach holiday spending this Memorial Day weekend, according to recent polling that points to growing economic anxiety across party lines.
A majority of Democrats, Republicans and independents said they have changed their grocery shopping habits in recent months to stay within budget, according to a CNN poll. Another 59% of Americans said they have cut back on discretionary spending, including entertainment.
More than three-quarters of Americans, including 55% of Republicans, said President Donald Trump’s policies have increased the cost of living in their communities, according to the same polling.
A series of national surveys indicate continued pessimism about the economy. Nearly half of voters rated economic conditions as “poor” in a New York Times/Siena College poll, an increase of 11 percentage points since January. Gallup polling also shows economic confidence has fallen to a four-year low.
Gas prices have risen nationally to more than $4.50 per gallon, according to AAA, adding to concerns about household budgets.
A Fox News poll found nearly 80% of voters, including a majority of Republicans, say the Trump administration is responsible for the recent price increases. Respondents also cited oil companies, the war in Iran and government regulations as contributing factors. The same poll found 57% of voters say Trump’s policies have hurt the country, up from 51% a year ago.
Additional polling highlighted broader concerns about national priorities and foreign policy. A majority of Americans said the war in Iran has not been worthwhile, while 68% said Trump has the wrong priorities. About 64% disapproved of his tariffs, according to survey summaries.
