The spectre of economic hardship is casting a long shadow over core supporters of Donald Trump's 'Make America Great Again' (MAGA) movement. A damning survey by Harris for The Guardian reveals that growing numbers of those who once stood firmly behind the former US President are now turning on him, blaming his policies for their financial struggles.
According to the poll, a staggering 56% of self-identified MAGA voters face difficulties with debt or anticipate future problems, while similar proportions – 57%, 58%, and 61% respectively – struggle with healthcare costs, utility bills, groceries, and fuel expenses. These widespread economic pressures are forcing a re-evaluation among a demographic that was once considered impervious to criticism.
Experts suggest that many of these financial stressors can be directly linked to policy decisions made during the Trump administration. The termination of government subsidies for health insurance, for instance, has contributed to rising healthcare costs. Similarly, increased energy prices and rebounding inflation have impacted mortgage rates and consumer prices, partly as a result of geopolitical events and broader economic shifts. Manufacturers – a key segment of Trump's base – have seen job losses due to tariffs imposed on imported goods, while farmers have faced higher costs for energy, fertiliser, and machinery.
Rural Americans, who overwhelmingly supported Trump in the 2020 election, are particularly hard hit, with 49% now reporting a worsening personal financial situation. This marks an increase from 42% in April last year. Similarly, 45% of Americans without a four-year college degree – another crucial demographic for the MAGA movement – reported deteriorating financial security, up from 42% in April 2025.
Crucially, the survey highlights a growing willingness among MAGA supporters to assign blame for these economic woes. Over half (54%) believe the government is primarily responsible for rising prices, while 41% accept economists' view that American consumers largely bear the cost of Trump's tariffs – directly contradicting the former President's assertion that foreign entities absorb these expenses. While 'MAGA' voters have not abandoned Trump entirely, with 62% of rank-and-file Republicans still identifying with the movement, these findings suggest a creeping sense of unease and a demand for tangible solutions to their financial predicaments.