economy
March 2, 2026
Trump says the U.S. is 'richer and stronger than ever'—why some Americans don't feel it
President Donald Trump touted economic wins during his State of the Union address. But Americans and economists say affordability is still a major issue.
TL;DR
- President Trump stated the U.S. economy is 'back: Bigger, better, richer and stronger than ever before' during his State of the Union address.
- A Pew Research poll found that 72% of Americans rate the U.S. economy as 'fair' or 'poor'.
- Despite Trump's claims of falling inflation and job growth, many consumers feel financially strained due to rising costs for housing and healthcare.
- Experts describe a 'K-shaped' or 'E-shaped' economy, where high earners are prospering while middle and lower-income individuals are struggling to keep up.
- Strategies to address the affordability crisis include increasing wages, strengthening labor laws, and improving social safety nets.
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