Arizonaʼs economy is thriving‚ but many voters in this battleground state dont feel the benefits as they weigh their options for the upcoming Nov 5 election. While job opportunities are plentiful voters are grappling with skyrocketing housing costs and lingering effects of inflation.
Maricopa County‚ which includes Phoenix Mesa and Chandler‚ exemplifies this economic paradox. The area has seen significant job growth (fueled by tech giants like TSMC and Google) and has attracted many new residents. However‚ this influx has led to a housing crunch – home prices in Maricopa have nearly doubled since 2016.
Glenn Farley‚ director of policy and research at the Common Sense Institute Arizona‚ points out: “Many voters see home prices and 30-year mortgage rates and compare that to the experience of their parents and grandparents and say ʼIm never going to own a home. Until those things are brought back under control‚ voters are going to continue to be sour“
Voters across the political spectrum express frustration with both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump campaigns‚ feeling they arent addressing key economic concerns. While Harris proposes homebuyer assistance and tax breaks‚ and Trump suggests immigration policies to affect housing availability‚ many voters remain unconvinced.
Abel Ramirez‚ 32‚ who voted for Trump in 2020 but is now undecided‚ states: “When it comes to helping the citizen helping a guy thats got to go to work every day to provide for their family‚ Im not hearing too much about it“
Arizonans views on the economy are complex. Many feel personally stable but worry about the nations overall direction. John Akers‚ 34‚ has seen his business thrive and property value increase‚ yet heʼs concerned about friends and family struggling with rising costs.
The situation in Maricopa County highlights the challenges facing many Americans. While economic growth has been strong‚ it has also led to affordability issues that leave many feeling left behind. As Election Day approaches‚ voters are looking for candidates to address these economic realities more directly