U.S. adults’ optimism about their futures fell to the lowest level on record in 2025

A new report released today revealed that under Donald Trump, small business optimism dropped in January, as uncertainty about the economy grows among small business owners. Businesses cited high inflation, the job market, high costs, and limited availability of insurance as significant issues contributing to their lower economic optimism. The uncertainty index similarly increased as more business owners reported skepticism about their ability to expand their business under the current economic conditions. 

U.S. adults are also increasingly pessimistic about their futures, as U.S. adults’ optimism fell to the lowest level on record.

In response, DNC Rapid Response Director Kendall Witmer released the following statement: 

“Donald Trump’s economy is great for Wall Street, but it has been a disaster for Main Street. His reckless trade war has hiked prices and hollowed out the job market, forcing small businesses to the brink as they try to keep up with growing economic uncertainty. Meanwhile, everyday Americans have soured on the ‘Trump Economy,’ and now report the lowest level of optimism on record about their futures. Small business owners and working families are footing the bill for Trump’s tariffs, while his billionaire friends and wealthy donors reap the benefits of massive tax cuts. Everyday Americans are sick of being left behind while the ultra-rich cash in.”

The report comes just days after Trump said he is “very proud” of his economy and National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett said “it’s definitely Trump’s economy.” Trump’s reckless trade war continues to wreak havoc on the economy: A new report found that Trump’s tariffs amounted to an average tax increase of $1,000 per U.S. household in 2025, and will cost families $1,300 in 2026. Small businesses, in particular, are reeling from Trump’s tariffs and do not have the same resources to blunt the effects of rising costs as large retailers.