One year after Donald Trump returned to the White House, American voters say his promise to quickly improve the economy has delivered uneven results, with experiences varying sharply depending on age, income, and location.
The BBC spoke with voters across the political spectrum to assess how everyday Americans feel about prices, jobs, and financial security. Their responses reveal modest improvements for some, but persistent strain for many others.
Lower Prices for Some, but Not All
In rural Michigan, 72-year-old Republican Mary Anne Dagata says food and fuel costs have eased significantly compared with early last year, when shortages pushed prices to extreme levels.
She recalls paying as much as $11 for eggs and having to choose between feeding herself or her dogs. Living on Social Security and minimal food assistance, she says conditions today feel “like night and day.”
Childcare and Shrinkflation Fuel Frustration
For Anthony Landaeta, a 33-year-old independent voter in Minnesota, rising living costs—especially childcare—have offset any broader economic gains.
With childcare expenses reaching $25,000 a year, he and his wife have cut food spending despite holding well-paid jobs. He gives Trump a 4 out of 10 on the economy, citing frustration with shrinkflation and what he views as exaggerated economic claims.
Supportive Voters Still Feel Worse Off
Some Republican voters remain loyal but unconvinced. Jim Sullivan, 55, from Indiana, says electricity and other household costs remain “super high,” and believes stricter immigration enforcement may be affecting labour supply.
He says he felt financially stronger during Trump’s first term and remains unsure whether promised economic focus has fully materialised this time around.
Young Americans and Job Seekers Struggle
Recent graduates report particular difficulty. Denise Demontagnac, 21, from Maryland, says she has applied for jobs daily since graduating last year without success.
Despite official claims of a strong labour market, she says employers appear reluctant to hire due to financial pressures, leaving her sceptical of headline economic data.
Anxiety Over Global Politics and Economic Stability
Younger independent voters also express concern about broader instability. Devynn De Velasco, 22, from Nebraska, says Trump’s focus on foreign policy disputes—particularly involving Greenland, Nato, and Europe—has increased fears of an economic downturn.
She and her husband are saving aggressively while delaying major decisions like buying a home.
Markets Up, Confidence Fragile
Financial consultant Kai Christianson, 30, from Colorado, says he is slightly better off than a year ago, partly due to stock market gains and tax policy—but worries those gains may not last.
He raises concerns about political pressure on the Federal Reserve, calling threats toward the central bank “very concerning.”
Overall Picture: Improvement Without Reassurance
While inflation has eased and markets have performed well, the BBC’s interviews suggest that many Americans do not feel secure, particularly when it comes to employment, housing, childcare, and long-term stability.
Trump’s economic record one year into his second term appears statistically stronger than it feels, leaving voters divided between cautious optimism and ongoing anxiety.
