Hassett Dismisses 16% Economic Approval as Iran War Lifts Gas Prices

8 articles · Updated · The Independent · May 26

Kevin Hassett said Americans remain "very optimistic" about the economy and called the University of Michigan's record-low consumer sentiment reading a flawed political survey.
Higher gas prices were the main disruption he cited, blaming the Iran war and describing the pressure as temporary while saying the administration is taking steps to curb inflation.
Gallup's latest survey undercut that view: just 16% of Americans rated current economic conditions as good or excellent, the weakest reading since 2023.
Groceries, insurance and housing affordability remain key household concerns, highlighting the gap between White House messaging and consumer unease.

With conflicting economic signals, what data truly reveals if the financial strain on families will ease anytime soon?

How can the global economy be secured against future shocks from disruptions at critical chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz?