A new Gallup financial sentiment poll reveals a troubling trend in the American economy: a growing number of U.S. adults feel that their financial situation is deteriorating. The poll, conducted from April 1–14, shows that 53% of Americans believe their personal finances are getting worse — the highest level of financial pessimism since Gallup began tracking this data in 2001.

The spike in Americans’ financial pessimism comes on the heels of President Donald Trump’s April 2 announcement of sweeping tariffs, an event his administration dubbed “Liberation Day.” Markets have since been volatile, and economic outlooks in 2025 have taken a hit.

“Americans’ expectations for the stock market, economic growth and employment have turned negative,” said Lydia Saad, Gallup’s Director of U.S. Social Research. “Consumers are feeling unusually pessimistic about their personal finances.”

Gallup Records All-Time High in Financial Pessimism

This is the first time more than half of respondents reported worsening financial conditions. By comparison, the previous highs were 49% in April 2008 and 50% in both April 2020 and 2023.

Only 38% of Americans now say their finances are improving — a drop from 43% in 2024. The lowest point on record remains October 2011, when just 29% believed their financial outlook was improving.

Lower-income Americans are feeling the most pressure. Among respondents earning less than $50,000 per year, 63% said their financial situation is worsening. However, the increase in negative sentiment since the 2024 survey spanned across all income brackets.

Economic Mood Split Along Party Lines

Partisan affiliation plays a significant role in perceptions of financial health. Gallup reports:

• 76% of Democrats and 54% of independents said their financial situation is worsening.

• Among Republicans, only 28% expressed financial pessimism, down significantly from 68% in 2024.

This reflects a broader trend of polarized public opinion on Trump’s economy and his handling of economic policy.

Stock Market, Inflation, and Unemployment Outlooks Sour

Along with personal finances, Americans are increasingly skeptical about the broader economy:

• 58% believe the stock market will decline — a reversal from January, when most respondents expected gains.

• 63% expect inflation to rise, marking an 11-point jump since Gallup’s last survey.

• 47% predict unemployment will increase, signaling heightened recession fears.

These figures underscore the inflation concerns under Trump and illustrate a deteriorating national mood just months into his second term.