Trump says ‘prices are plummeting’ during SOTU. Here’s what the data says.

MarketWatch

by Venessa Wong

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

During his State of the Union (SOTU) address, President Donald Trump claimed that prices were "plummeting," a statement that directly contradicts an exclusive YouGov-MarketWatch poll. This poll revealed that most Americans perceive affordability as having not improved under Trump's tenure. The data underscores a significant gap between Trump's economic narrative and the lived experiences of everyday citizens, highlighting concerns about the administration's handling of economic policies. The survey, conducted among 1,000 U.S. adults, found that nearly two-thirds believe affordability has either stayed the same or worsened since Trump became president. This sentiment is particularly strong among low-income individuals, who have been disproportionately impacted by rising costs such as healthcare and education. Despite claims of economic growth and job creation, these figures suggest that many Americans are not feeling the benefits of the administration's policies. The disconnect between Trump's rhetoric and public reality raises questions about how his leadership has influenced everyday financial struggles. This issue matters deeply to readers interested in finance because it reflects broader challenges in aligning government policy with economic outcomes. Misaligned messaging can erode trust in leadership, affecting consumer confidence and investment decisions. Moreover, the data highlights persistent inequalities and areas where targeted policies could better support struggling households. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of economic strategies and their impact on real people's lives. The broader implications extend to

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Originally published on MarketWatch on 2/25/2026