A new national survey paints a sobering picture of American household finances, revealing the extent to which rising costs are reshaping family life, economic confidence, and even the nation’s political landscape. The findings, drawn from The POLITICO Poll conducted with the research firm Public First, highlight widespread strain across the essentials of daily living — and growing frustration with leaders’ responses, according to Politico.
The poll found that nearly half of Americans now struggle to afford basic needs such as groceries, utilities, health care, transportation, and housing. According to Politico, “27 percent said they have skipped a medical check-up because of costs within the last two years, and 23 percent said they have skipped a prescription dose for the same reason.” Family life is also feeling the pressure: “37 percent said they could not afford to attend a professional sports event,” and “46 percent said they could not pay for a vacation that involves air travel,” Politico reported.
The survey arrives as President Donald Trump continues to give himself high marks on the economy. In an interview with POLITICO, Trump offered what he called an “A-plus-plus-plus-plus-plus” grade for his economic stewardship and insisted that “prices are all coming down,” according to the outlet. Yet the poll shows that many Americans — including a notable share of Trump’s own supporters — remain unconvinced.
Catholic social teaching places strong emphasis on the dignity of the human person and the right of families to secure the basic necessities of life. When economic pressures begin to erode those foundations, the Church calls for clear-eyed analysis and policies oriented toward the common good. The poll’s data suggests that affordability is not merely a personal struggle but a moral and civic one.
On tariffs, one of the president’s signature economic tools, public skepticism remains high even within his base. According to Politico’s analysis, “a minority — 36 percent — of Trump voters said tariffs are hurting the economy now but will benefit the U.S. over time.” Only “22 percent of voters who cast their ballots for Trump in 2024 said tariffs are helping the U.S. economy both now and in the long term.” Even among self-described MAGA Republicans, views were split: “27 percent of those MAGA voters said tariffs are boosting the economy both now and in the long term, while 21 percent of them said tariffs are damaging in both the short and long term,” according to Politico.
Food prices remain a major flashpoint. Although Trump campaigned in 2024 on lowering grocery costs, half of Americans surveyed said affording food is difficult. Politico reports that “55 percent blame the Trump administration for the high prices,” including “22 percent” of Trump voters — a vulnerability Democrats are expected to emphasize.
Housing pressures tell a similar story. High rents and record barriers to homeownership have become defining concerns for younger adults and Hispanic communities, two groups whose support was crucial to Republican victories in 2024. According to Politico, respondents ranked housing among their most challenging expenses, second only to groceries. A generational milestone captures the shift: the median age of first-time homebuyers has climbed to 40, the highest on record.
Health care costs also remain a top worry. “Nearly half of American adults find it difficult to afford health care,” Politico reported, with the issue ranking third among financial burdens measured. Political trust on this topic is fractured even within the GOP. While “84 percent of people who identified as MAGA Republicans said they trusted the GOP to bring down the cost of health care,” only “49 percent of non-MAGA Republicans felt the same way,” and “24 percent” of non-MAGA respondents said they trust Democrats on the issue, according to the polling summary.
These affordability pressures carry moral implications that resonate deeply within Catholic communities. The Church has long stressed that economic systems must serve people — especially the poor, families with children, and those on the margins. Rising costs that prevent Americans from accessing medical care, securing stable housing, or providing basic nutrition challenge leaders to pursue policies rooted in justice, solidarity, and the protection of human dignity.
As the 2026 midterms approach, the poll suggests that economic anxiety is reshaping voter expectations across party lines. Politico notes that affordability concerns are becoming “deeply intertwined with their politics,” influencing how Americans evaluate not only policy outcomes but the credibility of those who promise relief.
For Catholic voters attentive to the social mission of the Church, the survey underscores a pressing question: How can public policy safeguard the wellbeing of families and ensure that economic life reflects the Gospel’s call to protect the vulnerable?
That question — more than partisan rhetoric — may shape the national conversation in the months ahead.
Your support brings the truth to the world.
Catholic Online News exists because of donors like you. We are 100% funded by people who believe the world deserves real, uncensored news rooted in faith and truth — not corporate agendas. Your gift ensures millions can continue to access the news they can trust — stories that defend life, faith, family, and freedom.
When truth is silenced, your support speaks louder.
