Trump adviser says spending shows optimism despite surveys

A senior economic adviser to President Donald Trump argued in a recent television interview that rising consumer spending on essentials like fuel and groceries is a sign of public optimism, a view presented amid multiple reports showing significant economic anxiety among Americans. Kevin Hassett, director of the White House National Economic Council, made the remarks during an appearance on "Fox News Sunday" on June 1, 2026.

During the interview, anchor Shannon Bream cited several indicators of consumer concern, including the University of Michigan’s Consumer Sentiment Index, which hit a record low of 44.8 in May. She noted that other polling shows many Americans feel their personal finances are deteriorating and blame the administration’s policies. Hassett dismissed the sentiment surveys, stating the Michigan survey “no longer has anything to do with the economy” and had become a place for political expression. He argued that concrete measures like job security and income are more relevant.

Hassett pointed to low unemployment insurance claims and rising real incomes as evidence of economic strength. He acknowledged increased stress on credit card balances, with delinquencies of...