Trump Administration Linked to Higher Living Costs

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A recent national poll conducted by Morning Consult for the Century Foundation indicates that a majority of Americans believe the Trump administration’s policies contributed to rising living expenses, especially through tariff measures.

The survey, which gathered responses from 2,007 U.S. adults, found that 60% of participants blamed former President Donald Trump for increases in the cost of everyday goods. Specifically, 63% said grocery prices were negatively affected, and 61% reported that their overall cost of living worsened during his time in office. Additionally, 49% said their personal finances suffered during the same period.

Among Republican respondents, 70% voiced concern that tariffs introduced by the Trump administration would raise prices on essential products.

Julie Margetta Morgan, president of the Century Foundation, said the data shows that many Americans are facing financial hardship due to higher costs and reduced access to support programs. She also noted increased reliance on credit-based products such as payday loans and credit cards, which some believe can disadvantage consumers.

The poll results reflect growing economic pressure across households. Over 60% of respondents said it is now more difficult to find high-paying employment, purchase a home, or afford childcare. Daily cost concerns remain elevated—83% expressed worry over grocery prices, 64% were concerned about unexpected medical bills, and nearly half (48%) said they could not cover a $500 emergency expense without borrowing.

The data also showed how financial stress is affecting daily life. Twenty-five percent of those surveyed reported spending at least three hours per day worrying about money, and an equal percentage admitted to skipping meals in the past year to cut expenses. Around 26% said they had missed bill payments. Meanwhile, 76% of participants said they feared a possible recession in the near future.

Public opinion on economic power is also divided. Fifty-one percent of respondents believe large corporations have made life harder for ordinary Americans in the last 25 years, and 52% said billionaires bear some responsibility for growing financial challenges. When asked about political accountability, half of respondents said congressional Republicans had worsened the economy, while 41% pointed to Democrats.

Rachel West, a senior fellow at the Century Foundation, said many working families continue to experience difficulty covering basic needs. She added that the data signals a growing reliance on personal debt and savings to manage rising costs.

The findings suggest that trade and economic decisions made during the Trump presidency continue to influence how Americans view their financial wellbeing today.