Polling News

Partisan Gap on Economic Ratings

September 07, 2023

Pollsters consistently ask voters their opinion of the economy. Many things shape voters’ view of the economy, such as their personal financial situation, spending habits, home life, price of goods, taxes, take home pay, travel, etc. A recent CBS News poll finds, however, that public perception of the economy are now viewed more and more through a political lens. 

Why It Matters: The economy has long been one of the top issues that drives voters to the polls. As we look to 2024, there’s a clear political divide over “Bidenomics.” While Republicans scoff at the president’s bragging about the economy, Democrats rally behind their party’s leader. 

By The Numbers:

  • 52% of Democrats say the economy is “good,” compared to just 15% of Republicans who say the same.
  • Nearly all Republicans – 83% – say the economy is “bad,” compared to 44% of Democrats who say the same. 
  • Throughout the 1990s, the economy rating gap between the Democrats and Republicans averaged 11 points. That gap has grown 30 points since then. 

 

The Bottom Line: Democrats will rely heavily on base turnout issues like abortion and Jan. 6th in 2024. That said, Democrats’ commitment to “Bidenomics” messaging not only reveals their understanding that kitchen table issues still matter but is almost a calculated gamble that they can convince voters into thinking they are better off today than they were four years ago. Republicans must remind voters – especially the 44% of Democrats who aren’t buying their party’s economic roses – that everything from grocery shopping to buying a house are easier when a Republican is in the White House. 

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