New insights from a recent POLITICO poll highlight a growing concern among Americans over the escalating cost of living, with many holding President Donald Trump accountable for the economic pressures they face. Nearly half of the respondents believe that the current cost of living in the U.S. is the worst they have experienced, marking a significant shift in public perception since Trump's reelection.

The poll, which surveyed a broad demographic, indicates that 46% of Americans now view the affordability crisis as a direct result of President Trump's policies, asserting that it is 'his economy' now. This sentiment is echoed even among Trump's 2024 voters, 37% of whom share this perspective.

In recent elections in New Jersey, Virginia, and a notable House seat in Tennessee, Democratic campaigns have successfully capitalized on this growing voter concern by centering their messages around affordability. This strategy appears to be resonating with voters, including those who supported Trump in the past but are now feeling the pinch of high living costs.

GOP strategist Ford O’Connell acknowledged the challenge, noting that maintaining control in the House come 2026 will require a concerted effort from the Republican Party, especially as some traditional supporters begin to drift away due to economic dissatisfaction.

Further complicating matters for the GOP, the poll reveals a division within Trump’s base. While a solid majority of MAGA-aligned voters continue to trust Trump on economic issues, there is a notable decline in confidence among other Republican voters. Approximately 20% of Trump voters now believe that he has not taken adequate action to address the economic challenges, a sentiment that could spell trouble for his administration moving forward.

The White House, however, disputes these findings. Trump's spokesperson, Kush Desai, stated, "Cleaning up Joe Biden's economic disaster has been a Day One priority for President Trump," expressing confidence that Trump's policies will restore economic prosperity.

Despite these assurances, the data suggests a growing frustration among Americans with the current economic conditions. With the midterms on the horizon, Democrats are poised to continue emphasizing affordability in their campaigns, potentially leveraging this issue to gain further ground against the Republicans.

As the debate over economic responsibility continues, both parties are gearing up for a critical electoral battle, with affordability set to play a central role in the political discourse leading up to 2026.