Consumer sentiment in the US has surged to its highest level in two and a half years, reflecting optimism about easing inflation and rising incomes. The University of Michigan survey shows a 13% jump in January, marking the largest two-month increase in over 30 years. This surge in sentiment is fueling optimism for the US economy's turnaround, potentially impacting the 2024 presidential election. While the White House remains cautious, the positive outlook could help President Biden's chances if it persists.
President Joe Biden visited Milwaukee to promote economic improvement and business growth under his administration, with a focus on Black voters. He spoke at the Wisconsin Black Chamber of Commerce, highlighting progress made through legislation like the American Rescue Plan and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Biden also visited Hero Plumbing, where he discussed the revitalization of manufacturing jobs. Pro-Palestinian protesters demanded Biden's support for a ceasefire in Gaza, threatening to withhold their votes in the next presidential election. Biden declined to comment on the Colorado Supreme Court ruling removing Trump from the ballot but stated that there was "no question" that Trump supported the January 6 insurrection. Wisconsin Republicans criticized the Biden administration's handling of illegal immigration and economic policies. Biden's job approval rating has declined in Wisconsin, and this was his third visit to the state in 2023. Vice President Kamala Harris and First Lady Jill Biden have also made recent visits to Wisconsin. Harris is scheduled to return in January for a reproductive freedoms tour. Turnout in Milwaukee for the 2020 election was similar to 2016, with Biden performing slightly worse in wards with a majority Black population.
