Americans are increasingly downbeat about the economy

Inflation-weary Americans are increasingly downbeat about the future of the US economy.

Nearly half of the respondents to a new CBS News poll thought tariffs will increase prices in the long term, while a growing number predict a recession will occur in the next year; the survey was conducted late last week, meaning it captures sentiment even after US President Donald Trump paused most of his new tariff hikes.

Many economists also believe a recession remains a real possibility.

And while Trump’s exemption for electronics represents a deescalation, it also compounds the uncertainty for businesses: “Why would anyone anywhere build a new factory under these conditions?” The Atlantic’s Derek Thompson mused.