Americans Dealing With New Problem

With inflation continuing to squeeze household budgets, a new national poll suggests that the rising cost of living remains one of the biggest concerns facing American voters ahead of the November elections.

According to a Politico survey of 2,061 registered voters, a majority of respondents say today’s prices are the highest they have ever experienced, highlighting the continued financial pressure many families face despite broader debates over the economy.

Most Americans Say Living Costs Have Reached Historic Highs

The survey found that 57% of registered voters believe the cost of living is the worst they have experienced during their lifetime.

Another 26% said today’s prices are difficult but noted they have lived through tougher economic periods before.

Only 8% described the current cost of living as relatively manageable.

The findings underscore how inflation, housing costs, groceries, utilities, insurance, and other everyday expenses continue to weigh heavily on American households.

Gas Prices Remain a Key Election Issue

Fuel prices also continue to shape political attitudes.

Among voters who said gasoline prices will influence their vote this November:

• 46% said rising prices have strengthened support for the political party they already planned to back.
• 31% said higher fuel costs make them more likely to support the opposing party.
• Approximately 15% remain undecided.

For many Americans—particularly retirees, commuters, and families on fixed incomes—the price at the pump remains one of the most visible indicators of the nation’s economic health.

Who Do Voters Hold Responsible?

Americans remain divided over who deserves the most blame for current economic conditions.

According to the poll:

• 32% placed full responsibility on President Donald Trump.
• 17% blamed former President Joe Biden.
• 14% said both presidents share equal responsibility.
• 11% said Trump bears most of the responsibility while Biden shares some blame.
• 10% said Biden is primarily responsible, with Trump carrying a smaller share.

The results illustrate that voters continue to view the economy through sharply different political lenses.

Iran Conflict Seen as Biggest Factor Behind Higher Gas Prices

When asked what they believe is driving higher gasoline prices since President Trump returned to office, respondents most frequently pointed to the conflict involving Iran.

The survey found:

• 63% cited the war involving Iran.
• 40% pointed to tariffs on imported goods.
• 38% blamed the administration’s economic policies.
• 23% cited supply chain disruptions.
• 21% pointed to insufficient domestic oil production.
• 19% blamed sanctions affecting Russia and other oil-producing nations.
• 15% cited production cuts by OPEC and allied energy producers.

Energy prices have long been a major concern for American consumers because they affect transportation costs, food prices, and the broader cost of goods and services.

Sharp Political Divide Emerges

The survey also highlighted significant differences between Republican and Democratic voters.

Those who supported Kamala Harris in the 2024 election were far more likely to blame tariffs and the Trump administration’s economic policies for rising gasoline prices.

Meanwhile, voters who backed President Trump were considerably more likely to attribute higher fuel prices to international events, particularly the conflict involving Iran and broader geopolitical instability.

The findings reflect the continuing partisan divide over the causes of inflation and the direction of the U.S. economy.

Poll Details

The Politico poll was conducted July 12-15 among 2,061 registered voters nationwide and carries a margin of error of plus or minus 2.16 percentage points.