Generation Z, and adults overall, are feeling the impact of inflation and expressing disapproval of the U.S. Supreme Court, as well as President Joe Biden. A recent nationwide analysis conducted by the High Point University Poll revealed that 53% of individuals aged 18-29, classified as Gen Z, have allowed inflation to influence their major spending decisions over the past year. The poll, conducted from May 22-29, gathered responses from 800 individuals in Generation Z, with a sampling error of +/- 3.6%, and 1,000 total adult respondents, with a sampling error of +/- 3.1%.
Dr. Dave Tofanelli, associate dean of the university’s Earl N. Phillips School of Business, highlighted that Generation Z is particularly sensitive to economic changes, given their ability to navigate vast amounts of data and their awareness of inflationary shifts. In addition to the majority of Gen Z (53%) stating that inflation has significantly impacted their spending decisions, 36% mentioned that it had influenced their decisions to some extent, while only 8% claimed it had little to no impact, with 3% unsure about the matter.
The survey indicated that inflation ranks high among the concerns of both Generation Z and all adults, with 87% of Gen Z and 91% of all adults considering it an important issue. This places inflation as the second most important issue after school safety and health care in general.
The Supreme Court received negative feedback in the poll, with disapproval ratings of 50% among Gen Z and 48% among all adults. Approval ratings stood at 31% among Gen Z and 36% among all adults. Similarly, President Biden’s approval ratings were met with skepticism, with 52% of Gen Z and 50% of all adults expressing disapproval.
In terms of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, both Gen Z and all adults ranked it low on the list of important issues that Washington policymakers should address. However, when asked about the significance of the conflict to U.S. interests, 68% of Gen Z and 71% of all adults acknowledged its importance, with varying degrees of major and minor importance.
Regarding the relationship between the United States and Israel, a notable percentage of respondents were unsure of the best description. Among Gen Z, 25% considered Israel an ally, 21% a necessary partner, 12% a rival, and 14% an adversary. For all adults, 34% viewed Israel as an ally, 25% as a necessary partner, 6% as a rival, and 9% as an adversary.
The findings of the High Point University Poll shed light on the concerns and opinions of Generation Z and adults regarding inflation, the Supreme Court, President Biden, and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. As these issues continue to shape public discourse and decision-making, it is crucial for policymakers to consider the perspectives of younger generations and the broader adult population.