New data today shows that consumer confidence fell another 1.3 points in August as consumers’ 12-month inflation expectations picked up, pessimism about future job availability increased, and optimism about future income faded — and concerns about higher prices caused by Trump’s reckless tariffs continue to grow. 

In response, DNC Rapid Response Director Kendall Witmer released the following statement:

“Donald Trump’s reckless economic policies continue to screw over Americans, making it harder and harder for working families to make ends meet. Prices are climbing, jobs are harder to find, and Americans everywhere are continuing to brace for a recession. But instead of focusing on bringing down costs and giving working families relief, Trump is doubling down on his unhinged and unaffordable economic agenda that gives massive handouts to billionaires on the backs of working people. Trump’s failed economy doesn’t work for anybody but the wealthy and well-connected.”

Americans are growing more anxious about accelerating inflation and a weakening job market. Concerns about high prices and inflation — including food and groceries — rose again in August, and responses showed that references to Trump’s trade policies increased and continued to be associated with concerns about higher prices. Consumers’ appraisal of current job availability declined for the eighth consecutive month — the least of consumers in the past four years described job opportunities as “plentiful.” Notably, the share of consumers expecting a recession over the next 12 months rose in August to the highest level since the April peak.

This new data makes it clear how Americans are feeling under Trump’s economy: costs are up from everything from groceries to gas, it’s even more difficult to find a job, and fears of recession are on the rise. 

Here’s the bottom line: Trump’s unaffordable economic policies are squeezing working families.