At the Great American State Fair on the National Mall, Americans told Fox News Digital they’re cautiously optimistic about the economy — but their ballots won’t hinge on inflation or jobs alone.
Most gave the U.S. economy a passing grade, typically a “B.” But when asked if economic conditions would change their vote in November’s 2026 midterms, the answer was clear: values, leadership, and party affiliation matter more.
The responses offer a snapshot of how voters are weighing one of the nation’s top political issues as America kicks off its 250th anniversary celebrations.
“I would probably give the economy, compared to what it was, I would give it a B for sure. I think we are on the verge of an economic boom like we’ve never seen in our nation.”
Jay Miller of Lafayette, Louisiana, told Fox News Digital he believes lawmakers should work more closely with President Donald Trump to advance the administration’s agenda — arguing that doing so would unlock further economic growth.
“I’m glad that I’m living at this point and this time to witness it firsthand,” Miller said.
Donna Festinger from Greenfield, Massachusetts, gave the economy a “B-plus,” crediting the Trump administration’s focus on jobs and wages.
“I think it’s on the rise, and we’re getting more and more jobs, which I think really helps everyone in America,” the retired schoolteacher said. “I think this administration is working hard to help everybody earn more money and to be able to save more money, which will circle back into a better economy.”
Not everyone in Washington this week was as upbeat.
Bonnie from Hollister, California, gave the economy a “C,” citing ongoing concerns about prices — especially gas prices in her home state.
“I don’t think it’s great right now,” she said. “I would say maybe a C, but I’m hopeful that it’s going to turn around and be getting up to a B soon.”
Dan Cuda, a 72-year-old Air Force veteran from Maryland, said the economy still has “a lot of upside potential” despite inflation.
“Groceries are pricey,” Cuda told Fox News Digital. “I’m an Air Force veteran, and I’m still shopping at the military commissaries, and it’s noticeably up.”
Despite higher food costs, Cuda still called it a “B economy.”
But when the conversation shifted from the economy to politics, several Americans made clear: economic conditions aren’t the deciding factor in how they plan to vote.
“It doesn’t really factor into my vote. I’m voting R no matter what.”
Cuda’s sentiment was echoed across the fairgrounds.
Miller said character and values outweigh economic performance when it comes to casting his ballot.
“Give me good people,” he said. “Give me conservatives. Give me somebody with a little faith, a little family, a little value. And that’s got my vote.”
Bonnie agreed the economy matters — but it won’t change her support for her preferred candidate.
“It does matter, but it’s not gonna keep me from voting for who I wanna vote for,” she said.
