Democrats Gain Edge on Economy for the First Time in 16 Years

A man walks his dog past a mural depicting factory workers in the historic Pullman neighborhood in Chicago November 20, 2014.      REUTERS/Andrew Nelles/File Photo

Voters now believe that Democrats would do a better job than Republicans when it comes to handling the economy, according to a new poll from Fox News. 

In a national survey conducted April 17-20, respondents gave Democrats a four-point edge on the economy, with 52% saying they would do a better job “maintaining a strong economy,” compared to 48% who picked Republicans. 

As CNN’s Aaron Blake notes, the last time Democrats had the advantage on the economy was 2010. 

The edge for Democrats was a bit larger on a key economic issue, inflation. Fifty-four percent of respondents said Democrats would do a better job on inflation and prices, compared to 46% for Republicans. 

The economy and inflation are seen as important issues to voters right now. Asked to name the most important issue facing the country, 26% cited inflation and high prices, while 17% named the economy and jobs. 

Still, Republicans continue to hold the edge on national security, crime and immigration. And 61% of those surveyed said Democrats are focused on the “wrong” issues, matching the result for Republicans. 

Trump’s job performance: Voters expressed strong disapproval of President Trump’s handling of key economic issues. Seventy-two percent of respondents said they disapprove of Trump’s performance on inflation, compared to 28% who said they approve, while 66% said they disapprove of his handling of the economy, compared to 34% who said they approve. 

Overall, 58% of voters said they disapprove of Trump’s performance, compared to 42% who expressed support.