Americans are feeling less upbeat about the economy again, and Floridians appear even more uneasy.
Here's what to know
After reaching 115.9 in July 2025, the Rasmussen Reports Economic Index has now dropped for two straight months, landing at 102.1 in September, according to Florida Daily.
Florida showed a similar pattern. The University of Florida said its Consumer Sentiment Index slipped 1.9 points in August, falling from a revised 69.3 in July to 67.4. That was the sixth consecutive month of weaker consumer confidence in the state, and national consumer sentiment also declined during that stretch.
Rasmussen's findings showed an overall gloomy outlook. While 35% of American adults rated the economy as good or excellent, unchanged from August, 38% described it as poor, up two points from August. Another 24% said they believe the economy is improving, compared with 57% who think it will get worse.
Responses also varied sharply by party. Among Republicans, 55% said economic conditions were good or excellent, compared with 27% of Democrats and 23% of adults who did not align with either major party.
More background
Even as economic views weakened, more Americans said the country was moving in the right direction. That share rose to 39%, up five points from August.
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Americans were divided on what they expect to spend: 38% said more, 40% said about the same, and 18% said less.
What can be done?
Clear economic policy and local investment can help restore confidence by giving households and businesses more certainty. When people believe costs are manageable and opportunities are growing, they are more likely to spend, hire, and make plans that strengthen their communities.
Conducted September 10, the survey included 1,500 American adults and reported a 95% confidence-level margin of error of plus or minus three percentage points.
A loss of confidence can influence how families budget, how businesses plan, and how quickly communities move toward a more stable and prosperous future.
Where can I learn more?
Price shocks and policy choices can quickly change what people expect from one month to the next. That day-to-day reality is what consumer confidence surveys try to capture.
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