A recent Echelon Insights poll shows a shift in public opinion. Tariffs have surpassed immigration as the top concern among American voters, largely due to market instability following President Trump's "Liberation Day" tariff announcements.
70% of respondents expressed concern about the tariff plan, compared to 70% expressing concern about immigration. However, approval ratings for Trump's handling of immigration remain high at 54%, whereas approval for his economic management and tariff policies are significantly lower (44% and 40%, respectively).
The market reacted negatively to the new tariffs, with the Nasdaq, S&P 500, and Dow Jones Industrial Average all experiencing significant drops. This market downturn has contributed to the public's shift in focus towards tariff concerns.
A majority (54%) of respondents believe the president should lower tariffs if prices increase due to them. Only 36% want them to remain in place.
The White House has downplayed market concerns, with advisor Peter Navarro stating that a 0% tariff is insufficient. The President and Treasury Secretary maintain their willingness to negotiate tariff reductions with individual nations.
The poll also highlighted other issues such as tackling inflation, tax reform, and raising wages as concerns for American voters. Bringing manufacturing jobs back to the U.S. using tariffs was deemed a "top priority" by only 11% of respondents.