Americans are down on the economy (again), with inflation topping election concerns

After a spurt of optimism, Americans are feeling a little more glum about the economy — again.

Consumer sentiment, a gauge of Americans’ economic perceptions, is at a six-month low, according to a closely watched index by the University of Michigan. The measure notched its biggest drop since 2021, reflecting the persistent tug of inflation on household budgets and fueling fears that rising prices, unemployment and interest rates could all worsen in the coming months.