Support for President Donald Trump among Republicans appears to be waning amid ongoing economic challenges, particularly rising fuel and grocery costs linked to the conflict with Iran. Although Trump was elected last year partly on promises to revive the inflation-stricken U.S. economy, recent polling data suggests that many Republican voters no longer feel financially better off since he began his second term in 2025.
A recent poll found that 18 percent of Republicans report feeling worse off financially compared to just 4 percent at the same point during Trump’s first term in 2018. Only about a third of respondents say they are better off today, a decline from 53 percent expressing that sentiment six years ago. The Trump administration maintains that the economy’s fundamentals remain strong due to tax cuts and deregulation, and that inflation will subside once the Iran conflict ends. However, everyday Americans are experiencing increased financial pressures now.
Interviews with Republican voters across the country reveal the varying impacts of rising prices on household budgets. Crystal Pepe, 43, of Long Island, expressed frustration with soaring food and gas prices. Despite working part-time as a substance abuse counselor and her husband earning a carpentry income, her household struggles to cover expenses for two adult children. Pepe noted her salary has seen only a small cost-of-living adjustment, which does not keep pace with inflation, and transportation costs have grown considerably. Though she remains a Trump supporter, Pepe voiced concerns about the war in Iran and its economic effects.
Similarly, Jonathan Grieser, 36, from Farmers Branch, Texas, reported that gas prices near $4 per gallon have forced him to cut back on discretionary spending, including luxury coffee and dining out. A former inventory manager now caring for his grandmother after a medical injury, Grieser acknowledges his finances have generally worsened since Trump’s inauguration but plans to back Vice President JD Vance in the 2028 election.
In Florida, Ed Ramirez, 59, credited his family’s improved financial situation to relocating from New Jersey rather than national policies. Building a home in a gated community and lower healthcare costs have helped their budget, and Ramirez remains a firm Trump supporter, admiring his business background and leadership style.
Others, such as Kathy Borunda, 66, of rural California, have modified lifestyles to cope with rising costs. Borunda, who leans Republican but no longer votes, has reduced grocery trips and worries about the long-term impact of inflation on fixed incomes. She expressed concern that prolonged price increases could force her and her husband to leave California.
Mark Taylor, 72, on Florida’s Gulf Coast, described how high fuel prices have disrupted his spending habits despite a stable retirement income bolstered by savings in precious metals. He supports Trump's objectives concerning Iran but is worried about sustained high oil costs affecting the broader economy.
In contrast, Michael Grivette, 75, a retired Silicon Valley executive living in North Carolina, reports financial improvement since Trump took office. Grivette attributes stronger business performance in his specialty chemicals company to Trump's efforts to reshore manufacturing and tariff policies, which have had little negative impact on his domestic-focused operations.
Overall, while some Republicans continue to rally behind Trump citing his business acumen and economic agenda, tangible economic pressures from inflation and the Iran conflict appear to be tempering enthusiasm among the president's base. The impact varies widely depending on individual circumstances, with some voters struggling to manage everyday costs and others benefiting from localized changes or specific business sectors.