Economic Momentum Builds Under Trump Amid Voter Skepticism
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Economic indicators suggest that momentum is gathering under President Donald Trump’s administration, yet voter skepticism remains a significant hurdle, according to economist Stephen Moore. In an interview with Fox News Digital, Moore, a former Trump adviser and co-founder of the free-market advocacy group Unleash Prosperity, highlighted the contrast between improving economic data and the public’s perception of the nation’s financial health.
“There’s a perception, and there’s reality,” Moore explained. “The reality is what the numbers show — that median family income is up by about $1,200 this year, adjusted for inflation. We’re seeing real increases in wealth. Anyone investing in the stock market — not just rich people, but about 160 million Americans — has retirement savings in stocks.”
These gains come after a period marked by pandemic disruptions and the economic policies of the previous administration. However, Moore acknowledged that despite these positive trends, many Americans continue to wrestle with affordability issues, which heavily influence their economic outlook. “People tend to focus on the things that are rising in price, and I understand that,” he said. “But there are also areas where costs have fallen, including gasoline, airline tickets and some everyday items.”
The tension between economic data and voter sentiment poses a messaging challenge for the Trump administration, which returned to the White House with promises to improve affordability. A recent Fox News national survey found that 76% of voters rate the economy negatively, an increase from earlier in the year and from the end of former President Joe Biden’s term. The poll also revealed that more voters blame Trump’s policies than Biden’s for their personal economic hardships, a perception that has energized Democratic messaging focused on affordability.
Moore emphasized the importance of addressing these concerns directly. “That disconnect isn’t just about prices — it’s also about trust and communication,” he said. “President Trump should continue to focus on affordability, because cost-of-living pressures still shape how many Americans view the economy.”
Efforts to ease affordability challenges are underway at the federal level. The White House has teased a major housing affordability plan aimed at alleviating the squeeze on American families, while fluctuations in energy prices have brought some relief to consumers, as noted by the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Yet, the perception gap remains, underscoring the complex relationship between economic performance and voter confidence.
Moore’s insights come as the administration prepares for the 2026 election cycle, where economic issues are expected to play a central role. The challenge for Trump and his team will be to translate the improving economic fundamentals into tangible benefits felt by everyday Americans and to effectively communicate those gains.
For now, the economy under Trump is a story of progress shadowed by persistent doubts, illustrating the intricate dynamics of public opinion and economic reality in a deeply polarized political landscape.
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