Cost of Living Concerns Rise Among Latino Voters in New York

More Latinos in New York report feeling overwhelmed by the cost of living, even as some national economic indicators show resilience. Esmeralda Roustand, a 60-year-old home health aide, left a Latino supermarket in New York holding a small bag with two orange juices and chicken with green bananas.

She said the items cost nearly $20 and that food prices and housing costs have made it harder to support herself and send money to family in the Dominican Republic. Juan Galván, a college student in New York, said he checks whether he can afford to eat out or pay rent each month and has reduced time with friends to cover apartment costs.

A CNN poll found that the cost of living and inflation remain top concerns ahead of the midterm elections. The survey showed 70% of Americans disapprove of President Donald Trump's handling of the economy and more than seven in 10 disapprove of his handling of inflation and gas prices.

8% in April, the highest level in nearly three years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 50, according to AAA. 99 per pound compared with 99 cents a year ago. He said customers buy fewer items and sometimes ask for produce to be cut into smaller portions.

Sofía González, an Ecuadorian mother, said her family has reduced outings and restaurant meals. Yuberkis Suriel said every little craving now costs $40 or $50 and that prices have risen while wages have not. Michael Negrón, a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress, said Hispanics spend nearly 15% of their budget on food and around 8% on energy, figures above the national average.

He said higher gas prices affect Latino households more because many rely on cars for longer commutes. According to Negrón, 77% of Americans blame the president's policies for rising prices. He said policies such as tariffs, mass deportations, and the war with Iran have increased concerns about costs.

Roustand said she feels the economy is getting worse every day but continues shopping because she needs to eat.