Takeaways: What a new AP-KFF survey reveals about rural American voters

A new poll conducted by The Associated Press in partnership with KFF reveals that around half of rural American voters believe the economy has worsened since President Donald Trump returned to office. This economic frustration is a significant issue for a key group of voters who have historically supported Trump and other Republicans in recent elections.

The survey of over 2,000 rural registered voters found that high costs for groceries, gas, and healthcare are among the top concerns for rural voters. They are more likely than the general population to worry about their ability to afford groceries or gas. Despite this, many rural voters have not turned against Trump, but they also do not feel that he has delivered on his economic promises.

Rural voters have a different perspective on Trump's economic performance compared to voters overall. Around 40% disapprove of Trump's handling of the economy, while about 60% approve. However, only 45% of rural Republican voters believe that Trump has improved their local economies, with around 1 in 4 stating there are fewer good-paying jobs in their area compared to five years ago.

The findings suggest that while rural voters are unlikely to support Democrats on a large scale, Trump and the Republican Party may face challenges with them in the upcoming election. Rural Republicans generally have a rosier view of Trump's performance, with about 6 in 10 believing he has improved the national economy. However, only 17% of rural voters reported that the Trump administration's healthcare policies have had a positive impact on their healthcare costs, with 41% reporting no impact and another 41% reporting a negative impact.