American Economy: Good or Bad?

A recent poll conducted by CNN shows that more than 9 out of every 10 American citizens believe that the economic conditions in this country are very poor. With the economy being the number one issue for Americans today, it was not surprising that 93% of those polled thought that the state of our economy is absolutely horrible. What was surprising was that there were 7% who believe the economy is in good shape. These 7% must also be the same people that made up the 1% who said Dick Cheney was the best vice-president in American history, in another recent CNN poll (see article below). Here are some facts about the economic conditions America is facing today:

1. Energy costs have gone way up. Rising costs of gasoline, electricity, and natural gas are hurting everybody in America.
2. Housing market is horrible. American's are being kicked out of their homes, the property value of their homes have dropped, and people are unable to attain home loans.
3. Incomes have declined dramatically. From 2000 to 2007 the average household income decreased by $2,0000. It has gotten much worse with the recession we have found ourselves in over the past year.
4. Unemployment has gone way up. About 2 million Americans have lost their jobs in 2008 alone. If nothing is done unemployment is expected to jump to a national average of 9% over the next year.
5. There have been record deficits and debt. Our national debt has increased by over $3 trillion under President Bush.
6. College education costs have risen. Over the past 8 years college tuition has gone up by an average of 60%.
7. Healthcare costs have risen. Over the past 8 years healthcare costs have increased by an average of 78%.
8. Hard working people aren't able to retire. Retirement savings accounts have lost $2 trillion.
9. The stock market has gone way down. Markets have fallen 40% in less than a year. About 3 months ago, on September 29th, the Dow Jones Industrial fell 777 points. It was the biggest single day drop in history.

Make your own assumptions about the American economy, do you think it's good or bad?