As President Donald Trump’s second term barrels past its initial 100 days, Generation Z—America’s youngest voting bloc—offers a complex and critical perspective on his economic stewardship. While they harbor a surprising optimism about their personal finances, their disapproval of Trump’s handling of inflation and rising costs is louder than that of older generations. Coupled with two glaring campaign promises yet to be fulfilled, the economic landscape under Trump is a mixed bag of ambition, frustration, and uncharted risks. This article explores Gen Z’s economic outlook, presents key data in a comparative table, and highlights two of Trump’s boldest “day one” pledges that remain unmet, drawing on fresh insights and real-time data.
Gen Z’s Economic Pulse: Hope Amid Discontent
Gen Z, roughly those born between 1997 and 2012, is carving out a distinct voice in the economic conversation. According to a recent survey by the Pew Research Center, 70% of Gen Z adults disapprove of Trump’s approach to tackling inflation and the cost of living—14 points higher than the disapproval rate among seniors over 65. This sharp critique stems from their acute sensitivity to rising prices, which dominate their economic concerns. Inflation, though down from 3% to 2.4% year-over-year as of April 2025, continues to pinch, with everyday costs like housing and groceries hitting young wallets hard.
Yet, paradoxically, Gen Z is more upbeat about their personal finances than their elders. Pew data shows 27% of those under 30 report improved financial situations compared to a year ago, versus just 18% of those over 65. This optimism could reflect their early-career flexibility, side hustles, or a knack for navigating digital economies. However, it’s not all rosy: 30% of Gen Z still say their finances have worsened, a sentiment echoed in 2024 NBC News Stay Tuned polls, which captured their frustration with inflation under the Biden administration.
To provide a clearer picture of these generational differences, the table below summarizes key economic sentiments across age groups based on the Pew survey:
| Generation | Disapproval of Trump on Inflation (%) | Personal Finances Improved (%) | Personal Finances Worsened (%) |
| Gen Z (Under 30) | 70% | 27% | 30% |
| Millennials | 65% | 24% | 32% |
| Gen X | 60% | 20% | 35% |
| Boomers (Over 65) | 56% | 18% | 38% |
The table highlights Gen Z’s stronger disapproval of Trump’s inflation handling compared to older generations, alongside their relatively higher optimism about personal finances. This duality underscores their unique position in the economic landscape—frustrated with policy outcomes but hopeful about their individual trajectories.
Politically, Gen Z’s economic views shaped a surprising shift in the 2024 election. NBC News exit polls revealed a double-digit swing toward Trump among voters under 30 compared to 2020, with young men splitting nearly evenly between Trump and Kamala Harris. This suggests that while Gen Z dislikes Trump’s inflation strategy, some see him as a disruptor capable of shaking up a system they view as stagnant. Their growing electoral clout—now a significant chunk of the U.S. electorate—makes their perspective a critical barometer for Trump’s economic legacy.
Two Colossal Promises, Still Unfulfilled
Trump’s campaign was a whirlwind of bold commitments, but two cornerstone pledges—ending Russia’s war in Ukraine and halting inflation on “day one”—remain glaringly unfulfilled, casting shadows over his early tenure.
1. The Elusive Ukraine Peace Deal
During his September 2024 debate with Harris, Trump vowed to settle Russia’s war against Ukraine before even taking office, claiming it was “dying to be settled.” Yet, over three months into his presidency, the conflict rages on. Russia’s recent assault on Kyiv, one of the deadliest since the war’s onset, underscores the challenge. Trump’s frustration boiled over in a Truth Social post: “Vladimir, STOP!”—a rare jab at Putin, whom he’s otherwise pressured less publicly than Ukraine.
Trump’s approach relies on backchannel diplomacy via trusted aides, but no viable peace formula has emerged. His claim that Ukraine initiated the conflict (despite Russia’s 2022 invasion) has muddied his credibility. While Trump insists he’s working on his own timeline, the prolonged stalemate defies his pre-inauguration bravado, risking his image as a dealmaker. Web searches and X posts reflect growing skepticism, with some users questioning whether Trump’s foreign policy lacks the leverage he promised.
2. The Inflation Conundrum
Trump’s second unkept vow was to end inflation on “day one.” While inflation has eased to 2.4%, prices continue to climb, and broader economic gains remain elusive. Critics argue Trump’s aggressive tariff policies are backfiring, spooking markets and driving a nearly 10% drop in the Dow Jones Industrial Average since January 2025. Tariffs, intended to boost domestic industry, are poised to raise consumer prices further, a concern echoed in X posts warning of “tariff-driven inflation.”
Investors are also jittery, with some shifting away from the dollar amid fears that Trump’s policies could erode its status as the world’s reserve currency. A zero-inflation scenario, while theoretically appealing, would signal economic stagnation, potentially tipping the U.S. into recession—a risk Trump has yet to address head-on. Gen Z, already vocal about cost-of-living woes, may grow even more disillusioned if prices keep rising.
Trump’s Broader Agenda: Wins and Roadblocks
Beyond these unfulfilled promises, Trump has moved at breakneck speed to reshape America. He’s slashed federal programs, reduced the government workforce, and curtailed border crossings, earning cheers from supporters. However, legal battles are mounting. Federal judges have blocked parts of his election policy executive order, anti-DEI initiatives, and sanctuary city funding cuts. A dozen states are suing over his tariff agenda, arguing it oversteps congressional authority. Meanwhile, Trump’s team is pushing forward, with plans to target ActBlue and reinstate a transgender military ban.
The Trump Organization’s “Trump 2028” merchandise hints at long-term ambitions, but for now, his presidency is defined by a high-stakes balancing act. Gen Z’s optimism and discontent, paired with unmet pledges on Ukraine and inflation, signal a turbulent road ahead. As Trump touts his achievements, the clock is ticking on delivering the transformative change he promised.
