Staff Reports
Former President Donald Trump could deal a significant blow to President Joe Biden if he revives Ronald Reagan’s famous 1980 question to voters, “Are you better off than you were four years ago?” A new survey from Rasmussen Reports, shared with Secrets, revealed that 54% of respondents do not believe they are better off than they were when Biden defeated Trump. This sentiment is particularly prevalent among black and Hispanic voters, as well as among those aged 40 and above. Independent voters also expressed disappointment, with 57% stating that they are not better off.
Better off under Biden? Fifty-four percent say ‘no,’ most black and Hispanic people agree. https://t.co/sxVEUiIcRw pic.twitter.com/Yj91zPbuba
— Eugene (@eugene_mecke) May 13, 2024
In addition to the question of personal well-being, the survey also found that voters trust Republicans more than Democrats to handle the economy and immigration. Craig Shirley, a biographer of Reagan, emphasized the power of the “Are you better off?” question, explaining that it accurately captured the sentiments of the American people during the economic hardship of 1980. Shirley noted that Reagan had been testing out the line in campaign appearances before debuting it in the debate with former President Jimmy Carter. He asserted that Reagan coined the question himself, dispelling any false claims about its origin.
The survey’s findings reflect a widespread feeling of economic dissatisfaction among the electorate, with high inflation and sustained high prices impacting people’s lives. If Trump successfully resurrects Reagan’s famous question in the election debates, it could have a significant impact on Biden’s reelection prospects, as it did for Reagan against Carter. The survey results indicate that many Americans believe their circumstances have not improved under Biden’s leadership, which could prove to be a crucial factor in the upcoming election.
