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Rising Costs Put Voters on Edge as Utility Spikes and Tariffs Take Hold

Fresh polling shows broad monthly cost increases tied by analysts to tariffs plus surging electricity rates.

Overview

  • An exclusive Harris Poll reported by the Guardian finds 74% of Americans say their monthly household costs rose by at least $100 over the past year, with concerns shared across parties.
  • Electricity bills have jumped sharply, including a 21% summer increase in New Jersey per EIA data, and a Dominion plan would raise rates for many Virginians by about 15%.
  • The Independent notes electricity prices were 6.2% higher in August year over year, while the latest CPI showed 2.9% annual inflation after most of the new tariffs took full effect in August.
  • Goldman Sachs estimates U.S. consumers will bear about 55% of tariff costs, and Yale Budget Lab projects roughly $2,300 more per household each year, or about $191 per month.
  • The Center Square’s October poll shows price increases and inflation as the top issue for 15% of voters, with Washington Post reporting that utility bill anger is shaping the New Jersey and Virginia governor races and could influence the 2026 midterms.