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As the Trump administration prepares to take office early next year, many Americans are using this transition period to reflect on what the future might hold for their personal lives, finances, and the broader economy. New CivicScience data, collected immediately after the election, reveals a significant shift in public sentiment: optimism about the future has risen noticeably compared to 2023. Following the election, 46% of U.S. adults aged 18+ report feeling at least ‘somewhat’ optimistic about the future, marking a nearly 10-percentage-point increase from last year’s 38%. At the same time, pessimism has declined from 46% in 2023 to 36% in 2024.
Join the Conversation: In general, how do you feel about the future?
As expected, Republicans have become much more optimistic than last year, whereas Democrats have grown much more pessimistic. The percentage of Republicans who are at least ‘somewhat’ optimistic nearly doubled from 2023 (32% to 63%). Conversely, the percentage of Democrats who are at least ‘somewhat’ pessimistic increased from 39% to 53%.
This comes as additional CivicScience data shows that Republicans are shopping and spending more than usual right now due to the election outcome.
Expected annual household income also appears to impact Americans’ level of optimism. Households that earn over $100K annually are the most optimistic about the future; however, optimism among all income groups has increased since 2023.
Lastly, Americans aged 45+ have grown the most optimistic from last year. The percentage of Gen X (aged 45-54) and Baby Boomers (aged 55+) who are ‘very’ optimistic has more than doubled from 2023, while the percentage of Gen Z who are optimistic increased by five percentage points.
The notable rise in optimism across political, generational, and income groups underscores a broader shift in public sentiment in the aftermath of the election. While partisan divides remain sharp, the widespread increase in optimism suggests a renewed sense of possibility that could shape behaviors and expectations heading into 2025.
What do you think? Are you optimistic about the year ahead?
