WASHINGTON – American consumers expressed significantly less optimism about the economy in November, a sentiment influenced by the recent government shutdown, tepid job creation, and persistent inflationary pressures.

According to the Conference Board, the consumer confidence index fell to 88.7 in November, down from a revised figure of 95.5 in October. This marks the second-lowest rating since April, a period marked by President Donald Trump’s introduction of broad tariffs that led to a sharp downturn in the stock market.

The data reveals growing apprehension among Americans regarding rising prices and the sluggish pace of employment growth. The survey indicated a negative shift in perceptions of the job market. This decline in confidence could present political challenges for President Trump and Congressional Republicans, as it was observed across all political groups, with a pronounced decrease among independents, the Conference Board reported.

Earlier Tuesday, a government report showed that retail sales slowed in September after healthy readings over the summer. While economists forecast healthy growth for the July-September quarter, many expect a much weaker showing in the final three months of the year, largely because of the shutdown.