Public Doubts Over Trump’s Economic Impact Despite Global Triumphs

By Dick Morris
Thursday, 06 November 2025 06:22 AM EST

The disappointing results from recent local elections reflect a widespread voter perception — Democrats, Republicans, and Independents alike feel that while President Trump has achieved significant international success, these accomplishments have not translated into tangible economic improvements for their daily lives.

A national survey conducted by the author between Oct. 21 and 27, 2025, revealed that only 28.6% of 1,000 likely general election voters believed they and their families had “been helped by President Trump’s economic policies.” In contrast, 50.1% said they had “been hurt.”

When asked about inflation, the findings were equally concerning. Just 16.7% of voters reported prices had decreased under Trump, while 59.5% claimed inflation had increased and 19.1% stated it had remained unchanged. The public’s perception of worsening inflation outweighs official statistics, shaping political reality.

The disparity between Trump’s foreign policy successes and the lack of visible economic relief at home could become a critical challenge for the administration ahead of the midterms. This dynamic mirrors the struggles faced by George H.W. Bush in 1992, when voters viewed his focus on global issues as prioritizing prestige over domestic concerns.

Trump risks facing similar criticism unless he demonstrates that his international achievements directly benefit ordinary families. A proposed solution gained strong support: using tariff revenues from trade deals to provide each American family with $2,000 in cash. Sixty-seven percent of voters endorsed the idea, with 41.2% expressing strong support.

This approach would symbolize a direct return on Trump’s global negotiations, ensuring Americans feel the impact of his policies in their daily lives. Voters increasingly demand that leadership translate international victories into domestic prosperity, rather than seeing triumphs abroad while grappling with rising costs at home.

Dick Morris is a political strategist and author who has advised several U.S. presidents, governors, and mayors over a 40-year career.