In a stark indicator of growing pessimism, Gallup’s Economic Confidence Index fell to a record-low negative 33 in December, the lowest reading of President Trump’s second term.
Index Declines
The index, which gauges Americans’ views of current economic conditions and their outlook for the future, slipped 3 points from negative 30 in November. It had already dropped from negative 23 in October and had been steady at negative 20 in August and September.
Historical Context
The December figure marks the worst performance since July 2024, when confidence reached negative 35. At the start of Trump’s presidency in January, the index stood at negative 19 and has hovered in the negative teens for most of his second term.
Monthly Trends
After dipping to negative 20 in March and negative 22 in April, the index rebounded in May and peaked at negative 14 in June before declining again. The index’s theoretical range spans from negative 100 to positive 100.
Current Conditions
The decline reflects shifting public sentiment: 47 percent of respondents described the current economic condition as “poor,” up from 40 percent in November. Another 31 percent said conditions were “only fair,” while 21 percent rated them as “excellent” or “good.”
Perception of Change
A significant majority, 68 percent, believe economic conditions are worsening, whereas only 29 percent feel they are improving. This contrasts with May, when 58 percent said the economy was worsening and 37 percent thought it was improving.
Political Climate
The survey comes amid renewed focus by both parties on affordability concerns following the 2025 elections and a record-long government shutdown. The president has taken steps to address rising prices, including rolling back some tariffs, while at times dismissing “affordability” as a hoax promoted by Democrats.
Trump’s Approval
Trump’s approval ratings have slipped on his handling of the economy, although his overall job performance numbers saw a slight bump after falling to second-term lows in November.
Survey Details
Gallup conducted the survey from December 1 to 15, sampling 1,016 adults. The margin of error for the results is 4 percentage points.
Key Takeaways
- Economic confidence fell to negative 33, the lowest level of Trump’s second term.
- 47 percent view the current economy as poor, a rise from 40 percent in November.
- 68 percent say economic conditions are worsening, up from 58 percent in May.
The data underscore a growing sense of economic unease among Americans, a sentiment that could influence policy discussions and electoral dynamics as the country approaches the 2025 elections.
