New Data Shows Widespread Financial Strain as Incomes Lag Behind Inflation
Washington D.C., Tuesday, 20 January 2026.
A critical CBS poll reveals 76% of Americans report earnings failing to match inflation, highlighting profound economic unease as the administration marks the first anniversary of its second term.
Deepening Economic Anxiety
As President Donald Trump marks the first anniversary of his second inauguration today, January 20, 2026, new polling data underscores a stark disconnect between the administration’s economic narrative and the financial reality of American households. A CBS News poll conducted between January 14 and 16, 2026, reveals that 76% of Americans feel their income is not keeping up with inflation [1][7]. This figure presents a significant challenge for the White House, as 44% of respondents explicitly state that the administration’s policies have made them financially worse off over the past year [7].
Misaligned Policy Priorities
The data suggests that voters perceive a misalignment between their immediate financial needs and the White House’s policy agenda. While the public demands a focus on lowering prices, 60% of respondents indicate that the administration is placing “too much” focus on imposing tariffs on goods from other countries [7]. This skepticism regarding trade policy is compounded by a broader sense of dissatisfaction; when asked to describe their feelings about the President’s term, “frustrated” and “uneasy” appear as top sentiments [1][2]. Specifically, detailed metrics show that 54% of Americans feel frustrated, while 51% report feeling unsafe [7].
Global Distractions and Media Tensions
Beyond domestic economics, the poll highlights voter concern that the administration is distracted by international ambitions. 53% of respondents believe the Trump administration focuses “too much” on events overseas [1]. This sentiment is exemplified by the reaction to the President’s recent push regarding Greenland; 70% of Americans disapprove of using federal funds to purchase the territory, and 86% disapprove of using military force to take control of it [7].