In this economy, consumers are not happy. Their feelings dropped by almost 10% between January and now, according to a survey from the University of Michigan. When you look at sentiment based on political views, there are two different stories. But everyone agrees that inflation is a big concern.
Regardless of political leanings, people are worried about how inflation and tariffs will affect them. This worry leads to negative feelings and less spending.
Republicans feel about the same as last month, while Democrats are very concerned. The divide started in 2023 when the University of Michigan switched to internet surveys.
While consumers are divided, business leaders are more optimistic. CEOs are the most positive they’ve been in three years, according to The Conference Board.
