As the world grapples with the lingering effects of the coronavirus pandemic, a new affordability crisis is reshaping political landscapes in major democracies, according to a comprehensive international poll by POLITICO and Public First. The poll reveals widespread voter frustration and economic strain, influencing elections and challenging incumbents worldwide.

In the United States, the return of Donald Trump to power on a wave of economic populism has not quelled concerns about the rising cost of living, with 65 percent of voters believing their financial situation has worsened over the past year. Similarly, in the United Kingdom, after 14 years under Conservative rule, 77 percent of the populace echoed this sentiment, leading to a political shift in 2024.

France and Germany are also feeling the heat. French President Emmanuel Macron faces a daunting challenge with a 45 percent majority feeling their economy lags behind, while in Germany, after the collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s government, 78 percent report worsening conditions. Canada's scenario is no less grim, with 60 percent of its citizens stating that the cost of living is the most severe they've ever experienced, influencing political upheaval and the resignation of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

This shift comes five years post-pandemic and amidst global conflicts and the rise of artificial intelligence, highlighting how economic issues remain a top concern. Many citizens across the surveyed nations believe their leaders could do more to mitigate these issues but are failing to act decisively.

Javier Carbonell, a policy analyst at the European Policy Centre, notes, "For incumbents, it’s very difficult to run on these platforms. Today, center-left and center-right parties are seen as incumbents, and as the ones to put the blame on." The growing economic dissatisfaction is leading voters to seek alternatives, often outside traditional political structures, which could spell more changes in future elections.

The poll indicates a critical moment for world leaders. Economic woes are not seen merely as personal grievances but rather systemic failures. This sentiment is particularly strong in the UK, where two-thirds believe the national economy is deteriorating, a view shared broadly across France, Canada, and Germany.

Despite some economic growth forecasts, such as the European Union’s expected 1.4 percent increase in 2025, individual nations like Germany face stagnation, and France’s national debt has soared to nearly $4 trillion USD. These economic indicators are setting the stage for a pivotal year in global politics, with affordability likely to dominate election campaigns in several countries.

As David Coletto, CEO of Abacus Data, points out, "This is not a marginal concern or a background anxiety. It is a dominant lived experience." With elections looming and economic pressures mounting, the affordability crisis is poised to remain a central issue, influencing voter behavior and potentially reshaping governments across the globe.