A new poll by Fox News, Quinnipiac and others shows a common thread. Voters are telling pollsters that affordability is a top issue heading into the 2026 election.
But what part of rising costs is of greatest concern to Americans?
Medical expenses, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF). Recent data shows that 66% report feeling worried about their and their family’s ability to pay for health care costs. Medical expenses rank higher than food, groceries, utilities, housing, and gas.
55% of respondents reported to KFF that their medical costs increased in the past year.
However, cost affordability extends beyond healthcare. Voters are also concerned about prices in other areas.
Inflation fell to 2.4% from 2.7% in January, but prices for food, appliances and furniture rose.
“Some of the inflation statistics show that higher prices for products are due to higher tariffs, which feeds into affordability issues,” said Peter Earle, an economist at the American Institute for Economic Research.
Earle says the costs could be higher for U.S. consumers. The Wall Street Journal reported that clothing companies including Levi Strauss, McCormick and Columbia Sportswear have indicated that higher tariffs will force them to raise prices for consumers this year.
Clothing companies including Levi Strauss, McCormick and Columbia Sportswear have said the increased tariffs will force them to raise prices for consumers this year.
“Online prices posted their biggest monthly increase in January in 12 years, driven by higher prices for electronics, computers, appliances, furniture and bedding, according to the Adobe Digital Price Index,” the Journal reported.
Due to the increased tariffs, Stanley Black & Decker reported raising prices in 2025 and sales of lower-priced products fell further.
According to KFF, consumers continue to face higher costs at grocery and clothing stores, and the real concern is medical costs.
Politically, KFF says health care issues will affect turnout in the November election.
