**[U.S. Economic Confidence Drops to Two-Year Low: 61% of Citizens Pessimistic About Outlook, Majority Dissatisfied with Trump's Economic Policies]** Odaily Planet Daily News – A recent poll released by CNBC shows that pessimism among U.S. citizens regarding the economic outlook continues to rise. 61% of respondents expressed a negative view of the current economic situation and future trends, marking the highest level since December 2023. Only about one-quarter of respondents held an optimistic attitude. The survey indicates that most respondents attribute economic pressures to President Trump's economic policies. Regarding Trump's handling of economic issues, 60% of respondents expressed dissatisfaction, while only 38% approved—one of the lowest ratings for this metric in his political career. Micah Roberts, a partner at Public Opinion Strategies, stated that voter sentiment is currently at a low point, with the proportion of people expecting future conditions to worsen (41%) exceeding those who believe they will improve (29%). Market confidence is entering a trough ahead of the midterm election cycle. Meanwhile, rising living costs are forcing U.S. consumers to cut spending. The survey shows that 47% of respondents are reducing purchases of essentials like food and healthcare, up 6 percentage points from April. About two-thirds of consumers are cutting back on discretionary spending such as dining out. Another study conducted by Bain & Company in collaboration with NielsenIQ reveals that U.S. grocery purchases in June fell 1.8% year-over-year, a noticeable decline compared to the 0.1% growth during the same period last year. Kurt Grichel, head of Bain's U.S. retail division, noted that a routine shopping trip costing around $300 in 2019 now requires $400, with the "shock" of rising prices affecting a broader range of consumers, including high-income groups. Analysts point out that high food prices, elevated fuel costs, and cuts to certain social welfare programs under the Trump administration are collectively increasing consumer pressure. The survey shows that four out of five U.S. consumers are trying to reduce spending, with over one-quarter actively cutting back on food purchases. Among them, more than half are opting for cheaper brands, and 49% are buying fewer items. (ibtimes)