by Stuart Anderson
Forbes
Analysts say policy mistakes the Biden administration committed on the economy contributed to Donald Trump regaining the White House. However, not everyone agrees on which Biden actions were mistakes. Some argue, such as Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT), that if Joe Biden governed in a more populist fashion, his policies would have won over voters. Examining the record, it is unclear whether that assessment is accurate.
Voter Sentiment On The Economy
According to exit polls, voters decided the 2024 presidential election based on perceptions of the U.S. economy. “Widespread voter anger about the economy appeared to boost former president Donald Trump in Tuesday’s election, emerging as one of Democrats’ chief liabilities even with low unemployment and robust growth,” according to the Washington Post. “Two-thirds of voters rated the economy as ‘not so good’ or ‘poor,’ compared to just one-third who rated it as ‘excellent’ or ‘good,’ according to network exit polls. Of the voters who rated the economy negatively, 69% voted for Trump—a significant margin.”