Key facts
- Voters' top issue is the economy.
- Consumer sentiment is in 'throw-the-bums-out' territory.
- Real household incomes rose last year, reflecting easing inflation and a strong job market.
As the US presidential election approaches, the economy remains a central concern for voters, with inflation high and consumer spending strong. Despite negative voter sentiment and a low misery index, underlying economic data shows mixed signals, including a recent increase in real household incomes and anticipated drops in gasoline prices. Polls indicate a lead for Donald Trump over Joe Biden on economic management, though the margins are subject to question phrasing and may be narrowing. The influence of artificial intelligence on the economy is also a significant factor shaping the electoral landscape.