Economic Concerns in America: Healthcare Affordability and Inflation

A recent analysis by Pew Research Center underscores that economic concerns are paramount for Americans. Conducted between April 20 and 26, 2026, this survey involved 5,103 U.S. adults and utilized the Center's American Trends Panel to reflect nationwide views.

Healthcare affordability and the federal budget deficit have emerged as significant issues over the past year. Inflation remains a concern, with 66% classifying it as a very big problem, slightly up from the previous year's 63%. While unemployment is less critical for some (36%), it has seen an 11-point increase since early 2025.

Partisan Shifts in Economic Concerns

The survey highlights evolving partisan perceptions of economic challenges. Democrats increasingly worry about economic issues compared to the period after Donald Trump's inauguration. In contrast, Republicans now see inflation as less of a severe problem compared to last year.

Healthcare affordability is a major issue for 85% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents, a 12-point rise since February 2025. Comparatively, 60% of Republicans and GOP leaners express the same concern, maintaining a steady viewpoint.

Budget Deficit and Inflation Concerns

Concerns over the federal budget deficit have balanced between parties, differing from President Joe Biden's tenure, where Republicans viewed it more critically than Democrats. Inflation concerns show that 74% of Democrats now see it as a major issue, compared to 55% of Republicans.

While unemployment isn’t perceived as a major issue across the board, Democratic concern rose from 27% to 47% over the past year. Republican concern has inched up marginally from 21% to 25%.

Bipartisan Issues and Other Concerns

The influence of money in politics remains a significant concern for 74% of Americans, showing no major partisan divide. Bipartisan cooperation also worries nearly two-thirds of the population, with similar agreement among both Democrats and Republicans.

Discrepancies persist in other areas. Republicans are more likely to see illegal immigration, violent crime, drug addiction, and various forms of terrorism as major concerns, whereas Democrats prioritize gun violence and climate change.

Pew Research Center provides nonpartisan insights on critical societal issues, maintaining neutrality without advocating policy positions.