Gas, groceries, Trump's tariffs: Economic anxiety grows ahead of midterms

American confidence in the economy continues to ebb in the run-up to midterm elections, according to new polling. But it comes as U.S. unemployment claims fell to 194,000 last week, the fewest in three months and another sign that layoffs remain low and most Americans enjoy extraordinary job security. The American job market has remained sturdy despite higher energy prices that have squeezed businesses and consumers since the fighting with Iran began Feb. 28. Most companies are confident enough in the economy and their sales to hold onto workers. At the same time, hiring has been sluggish, resulting in a “low-hire, low-fire” job market. Last (Source: Scripps News | Region: Tehran, Iran)