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Perceptions that the economy's bad can cost you an election, even if the economy isn't actually bad

Mar 28, 2024
In 1992, voters’ perception that an improving economy was actually a bad economy contributed to Bush’s loss to Clinton. Could the same thing happen to Biden?
President George H. W.  Bush greets supporters ahead of a debate against soon-to-be President Bill Clinton in 1992. Bush blamed the media for pushing the narrative of a "bad" economy, despite positive economic indicators.
LUKE FRAZZA/AFP via Getty Images

What does a “good” economy look like — and are we in one?

Mar 27, 2024
Voters’ views on the economy don’t always match their own situation or national trends. The gap can color their views of candidates.
Yuki Iwamura/AFP via Getty Images

When an item costs more but you still need it? That's "inelastic demand."

Feb 13, 2024
Despite inflation, people still buy as much food, medicine, gasoline — even coffee.
The price of baby food and formula is up 8.7% year over year, according to the latest CPI.
Brandon Bell/Getty Images

Why pessimism about the U.S. economy might overshadow a longer-term success story

Zanny Minton Beddoes, editor-in-chief of The Economist, explains why the U.S. economy may be stronger than it looks.
Zanny Minton Beddoes, editor of The Economist, said that the U.S. economy has outperformed other rich economies despite economic pessimism among Americans.
Spencer Platt/Getty Images