Women are rightfully alarmed about the deteriorating state of the U.S. economy and rampant inflation, displaying a greater concern than their male counterparts, according to a recent exclusive Harris Poll. This disparity underscores the critical need for all citizens to engage with the economic realities they face.
While Democrats express heightened anxiety over economic conditions since Trump’s return to power, it is essential to note that Republican and independent women also display a pessimistic outlook. This bipartisan concern highlights a fundamental truth: the negative impacts of government overreach and inflation do not discriminate by party.
An astounding 62% of women compared to 47% of men believe that economic conditions are worsening—a significant gap that urges us to confront the challenges that hard-working Americans encounter daily.
As Libby Rodney, Chief Strategy Officer at Harris Poll, pointed out, women are confronting the harsh realities of inflation in their households; the rise in prices for essentials—groceries, childcare—rolls through their budgets far more acutely than the metrics that measure corporate performance. This exemplifies the disconnect between mainstream economic narratives and the lived experiences of average Americans.
This data is troubling for Trump’s administration. Women are not only more likely to vote but are also pivotal to electoral success. Even though Trump made gains among women in the 2024 election, a notable 10% still preferred Kamala Harris, pointing to a persistent gap that needs urgent attention.
In a revealing look at economic sentiment, 78% of respondents—men and women alike—expressed concern about uncertainty, particularly regarding rising prices. Yet, it appears that women are bearing the brunt of Trump’s economic policies, notably the impact of tariffs, which many argue disproportionately affect household budgets.
Research shows women are likely more affected by inflation due to existing inequalities in pay and household responsibilities. A staggering 71% of women identified as their household’s primary shopper, revealing striking differences when it comes to concerns about financial stability.
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52% of women reported being very worried about food prices, compared to only 39% of men.
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36% of women are dedicating more time to finding deals, versus 26% of men.
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55% of women indicated their financial security is worsening due to unaffordable essentials, in contrast to 46% of men.
The divide tastes sharper when we assess feelings about affording a family or a home. Only 27% of women feel comfortable in their current economic situations versus 43% of men. This disparity reveals troubling implications for America’s future families and their ability to thrive within a morally and economically responsible environment.
People who lack confidence in the economy may delay significant life milestones, further perpetuating economic stagnation. As Rodney aptly described, we are witnessing a generation in “anticipatory financial distress.” Such sentiments cannot be overlooked.
Economics, as perceived by different individuals, varies widely. For some, it boils down to the movements of stock markets, while for others, it aligns closely with their grocery bills and the cost of living. While certain sectors of the economy thrive, the average American feels the pain from the rising cost of everyday necessities.
In the past few years, we saw the stock market hit record highs, inflating the wealth of the corporate elite while leaving everyday Americans grappling with soaring prices. Even as unemployment remains relatively stable, inflation surged to historic levels, peaking at 9.1% in 2022—a crisis exacerbated by government actions, particularly the Federal Reserve’s decision to raise interest rates, burdening consumers further.
Though inflation has since declined under the Biden administration, the past irresponsibility still lingers. Many Americans rightly attributed their concerns to the White House’s influence. Trump’s reliance on tariffs, aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing, has shown limited efficacy, often resulting in price hikes as companies pass on costs to consumers.
Observations point to a severe disconnect between government policy and the realities faced by everyday Americans. The questions raised by this survey demand an urgent call to action: a return to free-market principles, personal accountability, and a recommitment to traditional values that prioritize the well-being of families over the fleeting interests of corporate elites.
This survey was conducted online within the US by The Harris Poll from 22 to 31 May 2025, among a nationally representative sample of 4,208 US adults.
