Americans' Perception of the Economy vs. Reality

Despite a strong economy with high GDP growth, low unemployment, and increased household wealth, many Americans perceive the economy as bad. A Wall Street Journal survey revealed that 69% of respondents believed the country was going in the wrong direction, and the University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index reflected recession-level sentiment. This economic dissonance, where individuals view their personal finances positively but the overall economy negatively, remains an enigma. Potential explanations include sticker shock from rising prices and political polarization affecting perceptions.