Poll Finds Increasing Financial Pessimism Among Americans Amid Recession Concerns
A recent Harris Poll conducted for The Guardian between December 11 and 13, 2025, among 2,180 U.S. adults reveals growing concern over financial security and the state of the U.S. economy. The survey found that 45% of Americans report their financial situations are worsening, while only 20% say they are improving. Additionally, 57% of respondents believe the U.S. is currently in a recession, marking an 11-point increase since February 2025.
Despite these perceptions, the U.S. economy does not meet the typical definition of a recession, which requires two consecutive quarters of negative GDP growth. Recent data indicates that GDP growth remained strong during the summer months.
The poll highlights notable demographic differences. Democrats (52%) and independents (54%) are more likely than Republicans (27%) to view their finances as getting worse. Women show a more pessimistic outlook than men, with 62% expecting a recession compared to 52% of men, and 50% saying their finances are worsening compared to 39% of men.
Racial disparities are evident as well, with 66% of Black voters and 67% of Hispanic voters believing the economy is in recession, compared to 52% of white voters. Income also influences perceptions: 59% of individuals earning under $50,000 say their finances are worsening against 37% of those earning over $100,000.
Respondents assign blame for rising prices predominantly to the government, especially among Democrats (76%) and independents (72%), while Republicans are more divided, with 55% blaming government actions and 45% attributing it to corporate practices.
Contextually, factors such as tariffs, government layoffs, and immigration crackdowns have been cited as impacting financial concerns. The Conference Board's consumer confidence index has declined for five consecutive months, even as the White House maintains that the economy is returning to strength.
