United States–Economy: Between Rising Unemployment and Persistent Inflation, Donald Trump Under Scrutiny

WASHINGTON.—The American economy is sending worrying signals as the end of 2025 approaches. According to data published in November by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate reached 4.6%, its highest level since September 2021, marking a clear decline compared to the situation observed a year earlier, at the time of Donald Trump's reelection. The number of job seekers now stands at 7.8 million, 700,000 more than in November 2024. This deterioration in the labor market follows an October without official statistics, due to the federal administration's shutdown, and confirms a gradual weakening of the post-pandemic economic dynamic. Job creations also remain below expectations. In November, only 64,000 new positions were recorded, after a net loss of 105,000 jobs in October. This contraction is largely explained by the elimination of nearly 160,000 federal jobs, following budget cuts initiated by the Trump administration, under the impetus of Elon Musk. Excluding the health, social assistance, and construction sectors, activity remains sluggish in most branches of the economy. This unfavorable economic situation weighs heavily on the American president's popularity. According to a Gallup poll, Donald Trump now only garners 36% favorable opinions, including on the economic front, traditionally considered one of his strong suits. Between rising unemployment and inflation that continues to erode household purchasing power, the White House is facing growing social discontent. The cost of living is now emerging as a central issue and a major political challenge for the president, caught in an increasingly restrictive economic context. Source: lemonde.fr Jean Mapou