@byHeatherLong
Americans are frustrated with the economy -- and the outlook for 2026. Every consumer sentiment gauge is saying the same thing: Sentiment is down to the worst levels since April (or since inflation summer of 2022). Why? Because the middle class is feeling squeezed. (And lower-income households are basically in a recession) 1) It's hard to get a job (unless you work in healthcare) 2) The cost of living is up, esp. the basics of food, utilities, healthcare, insurance and auto repair. 3) Real incomes are trending down as inflation rises and pay gains are getting stingier. In November, "expectations for increased household incomes shrunk dramatically," the Conference Board said today. Expect more of that in 2026.