Analysis shows declining purchasing power boosts Trump's election prospects

A new analysis shows that the purchasing power of American paychecks declined during the Biden administration, contributing to Donald Trump's election victory. The Paycheck Power Index fell 4% under Biden, after rising 5% during Trump's presidency. While average weekly wages increased by 17% in the last four years, inflation surged by 21%. This combination affected voters, with many prioritizing economic issues. In key swing states, purchasing power dropped significantly, impacting election outcomes. Despite some states experiencing wage growth, overall trends favored Trump. The analysis indicates that inflation and job market conditions played contrasting roles in influencing voter decisions, with inflation being a critical factor in the election.