Are they just insane? Why do the American People overwhelmingly think the economy is doing poorly?

[Marthe48]

80. Overall I agree economy is great

But: went out to an upscale restaurant to celebrate my grandson's birthday. My daughter allowed him to choose the restaurant, and treated me. I picked a Thai salad and added chicken. $22. Except for appetizers, that was the cheapest item on the menu. I didn't see the bill, but I bet it was well over $100. for 5 people. My daughter and her husband can afford a nice meal like that, and we didn't really celebrate the boy's birthday last year. But that's a lot to pay for a meal out. My granddaughter, who is 12, said, "Wait! Is that number the price?" And we said yes. I could tell even she was taken aback. Covid broke my restaurant habits, and if I get take out, takeout, I use a coupon or I skip it. (sigh)

On top of that, my daughter has put off buying a new or used car, and is basically running her car into the ground. She is at the point that the costs of repairs is not worth the time it keeps the thing running. They have a house, but I bet she spends more time in the car. She and my son-in-law were looking at car prices while we waited for dinner. They can afford a new or used car, but can everyone? I'm holding off on house repairs and hoping my car will stay roadworthy, hoping the prices will go down. Some people will have to let things go, because working 3 jobs still won't cover their basics.

I see the price of houses for sale in my (Appalachian) area, and can't believe the price of existing homes or the price of rentals. I don't know how people can live, and I often think of boiling a frog. I remember the eyerolls when my parents said they could get a candy bar and a bottle of pop for a nickel. I remember buying a Hershey bar for 5 cents. There isn't a single food item in a store that costs under a dollar, except bananas by the pound. My Dad bitched over an electric bill of under $30/month for a 9 room house with 9 people in it. Thirty dollars probably doesn't pay for a day in these times.

I am happy the numbers work for the economy. But we either need to increase workers' wages, or get the prices on everything down across the board. It is wonderful to see sentiments like 'the best things in life are free', but if keeping body and soul together takes such great effort just for basics, for so many people, how can anyone enjoy anything?

I got a slice of the pie. I want everyone else to get a slice, too.