Here's Why Here’s Why Affordability Is The Biggest Issue In US Politics
Nov 14, 2025
Mario Parker, Managing Editor for US Economy and Government at Bloomberg, delves into the paradox of a growing economy and widespread American pessimism. He highlights how stagnant hiring and a slow job market fuel public gloom. Parker discusses the shifting sentiment among working-class voters and explores the impact of rising health care costs on affordability. As the midterms approach, he outlines how Democrats are likely to leverage these issues while noting the challenges Republicans face in responding.
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Growth Doesn’t Equal Good Feelings
- The US economy is growing but many Americans feel gloomy about it. This perception alone puts voters in a dour mood and shapes political outcomes.
Stagnant Jobs Sting Voter Confidence
- Job market activity is tepid: firms neither hire aggressively nor cut many workers. That stagnation reinforces the sense that the economy isn’t delivering for many households.
Inequality Is Turning Into Broad Affordability Pain
- Economic gains have concentrated at the top while lower-income households pull back spending. That gap is now spreading strain toward the middle class and political consequences follow.