Foreign Policy columnists reveal what will threaten us in 2025
- A Gallup poll reveals that most Americans expect hard economic times and increased political tension in 2025.
- Over three-quarters of respondents predict international discord instead of peace in the coming year.
- These findings reflect a divided political climate, with Democrats showing more pessimism than Republicans.
In 2025, America faces expectations of economic difficulty and political conflict, as indicated by a recent Gallup poll. While many Americans hope for a happy new year, the majority foresee challenges ahead, with 56% anticipating economic difficulties rather than prosperity. A significant portion of the population, over three-quarters, expressed concern about increased political tension, indicating a lack of faith in cooperation. Views among political affiliations reveal a stark contrast: most Democrats hold negative expectations, while Republicans maintain optimism on several issues, notably less so regarding political collaboration. This division points to a fragmented national outlook as the new year begins. Moreover, this outlook reflects a tumultuous political climate marked by polarization. With the anticipated return of Donald Trump for a second presidential term, debates surrounding governance, trade, and public policy dominate the discourse. As the economic landscape shifts, Americans are grappling with uncertainties related to job security and inflation. Despite the grim predictions, there is some optimism concerning employment improvements and reasonable price increases, showcasing a complex sentiment that is typical in the wake of significant political and economic shifts. Looking globally, the sentiments in America resonate with wider geopolitical tensions. Factors like escalating international discord are indicative of an unsettled atmosphere not solely affecting the United States but rippling across global landscapes. Many analysts project that political and economic challenges will influence not just the domestic stage but also relations with other nations, particularly in the context of trade tariffs and foreign policy adjustments related to China, and Middle Eastern dynamics involving Israel and Gaza. As Americans step into 2025, the juxtaposition of cautious optimism about certain areas against fears of economic struggles exemplifies a nation caught between hope and disappointment. Such expectations may shape the political narrative leading into the upcoming year, emphasizing the importance of addressing these predicaments head-on through collective political will and effective policymaking.