Fox News Anchor Reveals Trump’s Top Economic Aide's Disastrous Polling Numbers

Kevin Hassett, a leading economic advisor to former President Donald Trump, faced challenging economic statistics on Fox News Thursday, as public opinion increasingly attributes the affordability crisis to Trump. Host Martha MacCallum highlighted a segment featuring CNN analyst Harry Enten, who noted a surge in online interest regarding affordability: searches have risen 110% compared to last year, reaching levels not seen since the Great Recession.

Enten emphasized that 36% of Americans currently consider the cost of living their top concern, followed by 20% prioritizing the broader economy. MacCallum pointed out that while Trump had previously succeeded on these economic issues in 2024, public sentiment has shifted. What do you say to the notion that the president has lost touch with the economy? she asked.

Hassett responded forcefully, denying that Trump had lost control, and described the presidents term as countering what he calls the Democrats affordability hoax. He referenced inflation statistics, noting that under Joe Biden, consumer prices rose nearly 10% in one year and over 20% across four years, while current inflation is around 2.5%. He argued that average Americans lost roughly $3,000 in purchasing power due to Biden-era policies.

FactCheck.org data cited by Hassett showed that during Bidens presidency, consumer prices increased by 21.5%, private-sector wages declined by 4%, unemployment averaged 4.1%below historical normsand the economy grew at least 2.5% annually. Hassett added that in Trumps economy this year, Americans have seen a $1,200 gain in purchasing power due to his economic strategies.

MacCallum questioned Hassett on whether inflation still outpaces wage growth. Hassett initially denied this, but was confronted with a Fox News poll revealing that 76% of respondents rated the current economy as only fair or poor. When asked who is most responsible for these conditions, 62% cited President Trump. MacCallum asked, What would you say to people responding that way?

Hassett partially attributed the negative perception to the government shutdown and suggested that holiday shopping optimism could bolster economic sentiment. He expressed confidence that economic growth would be visible in the first half of the next year.

Author: Ethan Caldwell