A recent POLITICO Poll found that concerns about the cost of living are deepening political divisions in the U.S., especially among Republicans. While many Americans say the cost of living is the top issue facing the country, not all voters agree on whether it has gotten worse. A new analysis of the POLITICO Poll shows that only 28 percent of voters who identify with the MAGA movement — a term associated with former President Donald Trump’s political base — believe expenses have become less affordable since he took office. In fact, MAGA voters are more likely to say things have improved compared to the rest of the country, including those who supported Kamala Harris in 2024 and those who voted for Trump but do not identify with the MAGA movement. This divide presents a complicated challenge for Republicans in an election centered on the economy. While cost of living concerns are reinforcing Democrats’ opposition to Trump, they are also creating tension within the Republican base. According to a POLITICO analysis of cost of living data, Harris voters are more likely than Trump voters to say groceries, gas, and other expenses have gotten more expensive since the president took office, even though both groups have faced similar increases in household costs. Democrats are using this frustration as a key part of their campaign message this fall, hoping to gain an advantage in the November election. The poll also highlights how partisanship influences how Americans remember the economy in the past. Harris voters have a more favorable memory of Democratic presidents, while Trump voters have a more favorable memory of Republican presidents. Each group believes life was more affordable when their preferred party was in power. This lack of shared understanding of the economic past makes it difficult for any party in power to convince voters of their plans for the future. The POLITICO Poll asked respondents to compare the affordability of everyday items in the past to today, and their answers split along party lines depending on how the question was framed. Young voters — especially young men — have grown disillusioned with the Trump administration amid rising living costs, signaling a potential challenge for the GOP. Among those under 25 who say the cost of living is the worst it has ever been, 56% trust Democrats to reduce costs, compared to just 20% who trust Republicans. This trend has led some young voters to support candidates from the Democratic Socialists of America, like Zohran Mamdani, who are seen as more aligned with their concerns. As the cost of living remains a central issue in the upcoming election, the ability of both parties to address these concerns and bridge the growing divide between voters and Washington will be crucial.