Voter Perspectives on Trump's Economic Performance: A Mixed Bag

Tue Jan 20 2026 11:04:11 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As Donald Trump embarks on his second presidential term, voters express diverse opinions on the state of the economy—ranging from improvements to dissatisfaction—reflecting the complexities of current economic realities.

One year into Donald Trump's second term, voters across the United States share their experiences with the economy, revealing a tapestry of feelings from optimism regarding falling prices to concerns over job availability and inflation. This article presents insights from various voters, reflecting on how their lives have changed since Trump's return to the White House.

When campaigning to become president for the second time, Donald Trump made improving the economy a central part of his pitch to voters. One year after returning to the White House, we asked voters about that promise. What do they think of the state of the economy? Are their lives better today than they were a year ago?

People from across the US and the political spectrum told the BBC about setting food budgets, applying for jobs and more. Here is what some of them had to say.

Mary Anne Dagata, 72, Michigan

This Michigander, a Republican, has seen the prices of basic food items fall in her rural area since Trump returned to the White House.

At the beginning of the year, things were a lot tougher... Where other people were complaining about $7 (£5.23) eggs, we had $11 (£8.22) eggs... It's much better now, it's like night and day. We're aiming in a better place these days.

Anthony Landaeta, 33, Minnesota

An independent voter, this father of an 18-month-old boy has cut down his food budget after he discovered the shockingly steep price tag for childcare.

It feels like the price of everything is rising. Childcare costs are about $25,000 per year, which really surprised me...

Jim Sullivan, 55, Indiana

This Indiana Republican backs the president but feels he was better off in the first Trump administration than in the second... so far.

I know inflation is down, but prices for all kinds of other things are super high... I feel like I was doing a lot better then.

Devynn De Velasco, 22, Nebraska

This independent voter is worried about how Trump's focus on foreign policy will ultimately impact the US economy.

My husband and I are honestly worried about an economic collapse... so the threats to Greenland and Denmark have made me quite anxious.

Denise Demontagnac, 21, Maryland

This registered Democrat graduated from university last year, and she has not been able to find work since, despite a job market the president has touted.

One year post graduation, I have not been able to find a stable job which is extremely impacting my life and my family's life as well...

Kai Christianson, 30, Colorado

This financial consultant, an independent voter, says his finances are 'marginally ahead' of this time last year, but he's worried the gains won't last.

On the campaign trail, Trump consistently brought up inflation... but once back in office, it has taken a back seat.