Deep concerns about inflation and the labor market are prevalent across the United States as Republicans assume control of both the White House and Congress. This sentiment persists despite low unemployment rates, according to a national probability survey conducted by the John J. Heldrich Center for Workforce Development at Rutgers University. The survey, which took place from January 17 to 19, 2025, involved 648 members of the U.S. labor force.
The survey revealed that seven in ten U.S. workers express significant concern about the cost of living, with 69% voicing this worry. Among those in households earning less than $50,000 annually, this figure rises to 82%. Additionally, workers in these lower-income households are twice as likely to be very concerned about supporting their families (54%) and their job security (27%) compared to those earning $100,000 or more annually (20% and 8%, respectively). Half of these lower-income workers also express serious concern about employment opportunities for job seekers.
A previous survey conducted by the Heldrich Center in December 2024 found that half of U.S. workers lack confidence in the federal government's ability to strengthen the economy. This earlier survey involved 631 participants and took place from December 16 to 18, 2024.
According to this December survey:
- "76% of U.S. workers rate the economy as only fair or poor."
- "Just half (51%) are very or somewhat confident that the government will build a stronger economy."
- "4 in 10 workers (41%) are very or somewhat confident that Republican control of the White House and Congress will lower the cost of living or help people living on fixed incomes."
- "Only 16% of U.S. workers say they are very confident that the government can take action that will lower the cost of living."
- "23% are very confident that the new government in Washington, D.C., can build a stronger economy."
The surveys show no major differences among workers based on household income regarding confidence in boosting stock markets; however, there is a disparity between income groups concerning this issue: "70% of workers living in households earning $100,000 and more annually," compared to "49% of workers living in households earning less than $50,000 per year," express confidence in Republican leadership's ability to improve stock market conditions.
Carl Van Horn, Ph.D., Distinguished Professor and Director at the Heldrich Center stated: “Despite 4% unemployment and a healthy job market, U.S. workers — especially lower-income workers and job seekers — are looking to Washington to address economic challenges that concern them.”
The findings from these surveys will be explored further in several reports set for release by the Heldrich Center over upcoming months.
The John J. Heldrich Center for Workforce Development is part of Rutgers University's Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy. It focuses on enhancing workplace effectiveness through improved workforce education and training practices.
