A new Reuters/Ipsos poll suggests that rising living costs are creating growing frustration among Americans, with a large majority saying President Donald Trump’s policies share responsibility for higher prices.
According to the survey, 78% of Americans said at least some blame for rising costs lies with the White House. The findings include substantial numbers of Republicans and independents, highlighting how affordability concerns are reaching across party lines ahead of the November 2026 midterm elections.
Rising Prices Remain a Major Concern
The poll found that 54% of respondents believe the cost of living has increased significantly over the past year. Another 30% said it had risen somewhat, while 10% reported that costs had remained unchanged.
For many households, higher prices for everyday essentials are putting pressure on budgets. The survey also found that 57% of Republican respondents said expenses were increasing faster than their paychecks.
The results point to a continuing challenge for Trump, who campaigned in 2024 on promises to tackle inflation and make life more affordable for American families.
Republicans and Independents Express Concerns
Although criticism of Trump’s economic management was strongest among Democrats, dissatisfaction was also evident among voters outside the Democratic Party.
The survey found that 40% of Republicans and 63% of independents disapproved of Trump’s handling of the economy. Across all respondents, 68% expressed dissatisfaction with his approach to inflation.
These figures suggest that economic concerns could influence voter decisions as Republicans and Democrats compete for control of Congress in the November midterm elections.
Tariffs and Energy Prices Under Scrutiny
Respondents pointed to policies including import tariffs as important contributors to rising prices. The economic impact of the conflict involving Iran has also added to concerns about energy costs.
According to Reuters, the average U.S. gasoline price reached $4.36 per gallon on October 8, compared with $3.11 a year earlier. Diesel prices were also elevated, putting additional pressure on businesses and consumers who depend on transportation.
However, inflation has multiple contributing factors, and the poll measures public opinion rather than independently establishing how much any individual policy has contributed to price increases.
The Trump administration has defended its economic record. White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers said the president had delivered benefits for American families, including through tax cuts and efforts to lower prescription drug costs.
Households Adjust Their Spending
The survey also offered signs that higher living costs are affecting consumer choices. Around 63% of respondents said they were eating at restaurants less frequently, while 56% reported spending less on entertainment or streaming services.
These changes suggest that some Americans are adjusting discretionary spending to manage household budgets. At the same time, economic data cited by Reuters indicates that wage growth has continued, although rising prices have absorbed much of those gains for many workers.
Midterm Elections Could Put Affordability in Focus
The Reuters/Ipsos poll was conducted online from September 30 through October 5, 2026, and included 4,506 U.S. adults. Ipsos describes the survey as a nationally representative probability sample.
With the November 3 midterm elections approaching, the cost of living is emerging as a key political issue. The poll indicates that concerns about prices extend beyond traditional party divisions, although voters remain divided over which party offers the best solutions.
The findings do not guarantee a particular electoral outcome, but they underscore the political importance of affordability as Americans assess the economy and the administration’s policies.
Source: Reuters/Ipsos polling, reported October 9, 2026.