Kevin Hassett, the director of the National Economic Council (NEC), publicly challenged recent polling data that suggests negative public sentiment regarding the U.S. economy. Speaking on CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” Hassett characterized the current economic climate as a “boom” rather than a downturn.

To support his position, Hassett pointed to consumer spending habits as a more reliable indicator of economic health than survey data. He specifically highlighted high levels of travel and stays at “nice hotels” as evidence that consumers are financially confident and active. Hassett’s comments serve as a direct rebuttal to recent surveys that have indicated widespread public dissatisfaction with the economy. While Hassett emphasizes the strength of consumer activity, the report does not address the potential impact of inflation or rising costs of living, which are frequently cited in the polls he dismissed. The interview highlights a growing disconnect between government assessments of economic performance and the sentiments expressed by the public in recent polling.