American Economy,  Polling

Poll Watch: 72% of Americans Cite Economy as Most Important Problem Facting the Country – Obama Calls a News Conference



According to the latest Gallup poll.

Seventy-two percent of Americans cite some aspect of the U.S. economy as the “most important problem” facing the country today. This is the highest net mention of the economy since February 2010, although still below the 86% peak recorded in February 2009 as Washington was focused on passing an economic stimulus plan.

Well, the stock market took a big hit today and gasoline prices are skyrocketing as Middle East events drive the oil markets wild. In the meantime, the Obama White House is ignoring the budget hawks in the GOP dominated House.

What else could go wrong?

Plenty.

Economic concerns continue to weigh heavily on Americans’ minds, as evidenced by the issues Americans consider to be the nation’s most important problem. The economy in general and unemployment dominate their economically oriented responses, but mentions of the federal budget deficit and gas prices are up.

Gallup’s “most important problem” trends suggest that Americans’ top-of-mind concern about gas prices will continue to mount as prices edge higher, but isn’t likely to surge above 20% until prices set a new record, which would be something over $4.11.

Now, it has just been announced that President Obama will hold a news conference tomorrow afternoon to address rising fuel prices. I wonder if he will pull oil out of the strategic petroleum reserve?