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6 in 10 Say Prices Will Decide Their Vote - Which Expenses Are Impacting Americans the Most?
AOL.com • • business
Key Points:
- Affordability has emerged as the top concern for American voters ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, with about 60% identifying the economy or high prices as the key factor influencing their vote.
- Housing costs continue to rise, with shelter expenses increasing 3.2% over the past year, making it the largest monthly expense and a major financial strain for many households.
- Food prices remain elevated, rising 3.0% year over year, prompting consumers to opt for cheaper alternatives, while restaurant meal costs have increased by 3.4%.
- Energy costs are volatile, with gasoline prices still 24.6% higher than a year ago and electricity prices up 4.2%, impacting overall household budgets and contributing to higher costs of goods.
- Insurance premiums and childcare expenses, though less headline-grabbing, persistently pressure family budgets, with many paying significantly more than in previous years.
