Economic Strain Looms Over Holiday Shoppers Amid Persisting Inflation

Sat Dec 13 2025 16:06:35 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As the holiday shopping season unfolds, American consumers are grappling with persistent inflation leading to cutbacks on spending, using savings and searching for budget-friendly options. Despite a buoyant facade, many citizens feel the pinch as living costs soar.

A recent AP-NORC poll reveals that a majority of U.S. adults are feeling economic strain this holiday season, with many reporting higher prices for essential goods like groceries and electricity. Approximately half are cutting back on holiday spending, reflecting a broader concern over inflation that has persisted despite promises of economic recovery. Many Americans express skepticism about the likelihood of improvement in their financial expectations for the coming year, indicating ongoing challenges in the economy under current leadership.

WASHINGTON (AP) — This holiday season, many American shoppers are faced with a challenging economic landscape. An AP-NORC poll indicates that a significant portion of the public is resorting to savings, searching for deals, and grappling with perceptions of a stagnant economy under President Trump.

The survey highlights that most U.S. adults have noted increased prices for essentials like groceries and electricity. About half of Americans find it more difficult than usual to afford gifts, with similar percentages opting to postpone large purchases and cut back on discretionary spending.

Trump, who regained the presidency in part by promising to lower costs, now faces the backlash of inflation that threatens his approval ratings, echoing challenges faced during Biden’s presidency. The economic anxiety is compounded by Trump’s tariffs, which have exacerbated the inflationary environment and left many Americans frustrated.

Despite the president’s assertions of a booming economy, public sentiment reveals a stark contrast. In a bid to regain consumer faith before the midterm elections, White House officials plan to intensify efforts to showcase positive economic narratives.

However, many Americans, including those who supported Trump, are feeling the strain. Respondents from the survey reported a significant 87% observing higher grocery prices, while around 40% are dipping into savings to manage holiday expenses.

Democrats appear more affected by economic cutbacks, though a notable share of Republicans are also budgeting tightly this season. As the holiday shopping period progresses, many consumers express doubts that the economic climate will improve anytime soon, reflecting a pervasive anxiety about their financial futures.

In conclusion, this holiday season serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by inflation, with many Americans adapting their shopping behaviors in response. Whether this trend will shift remains to be seen.