President Trump’s State of the Union speech brushed off affordability concerns, boasting about the economy. However, data shows that cost of living worries are prevalent among American households.

Consumer Confidence Index slightly increased to 91.2 in February, but views on prices, inflation, trade, jobs, and family finances remained negative.

Retail earnings reveal a shift towards bargain shopping, with TJX reporting strong sales growth while Home Depot and Lowe’s see minimal growth due to cautious consumer spending.

American consumers are seeking discounts, while big purchases like housing remain challenging due to high costs and tight budgets despite the administration’s positive economic outlook.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Consumers aren’t experiencing Trump’s ‘roaring’ economy