Despite Significant Challenges & Economic Anxiety, Business Leaders and Americans Align Around New Strategies to Offset Risk According to New Milken Institute-Harris Poll

U.S. business leaders and Americans alike are confronting significant geo-economic challenges, according to a new Milken Institute-Harris Poll report, “Building A Resilient America: The New Consensus for Action.” The findings illuminate the struggles leaders face as they navigate through economic instability, tech disruptions, and societal shifts. These challenges come with the task of marrying immediate pressures with long-term strategic ambitions with concerns about America's global position prompting 91% of business leaders to advocate for a concerted effort to bolster U.S. competitiveness in the global market.

Concurrently, the research indicates a consensus for optimism and collective effort that transcends political boundaries. It uncovers a widespread desire for optimism and unity across the U.S., cutting through political divides with Americans calling for long-term leaders and forward-thinking approaches. Additionally, business leaders across various sectors share positive outlooks, believing that their businesses are strong, and that American competitiveness can be fortified through local investment, cross-sector cooperation, and a commitment to sustainable practices.

"U.S. business leaders are optimistic about business strength, but for many Americans, the economic recovery is a reality yet to be experienced at home,” said Harris Poll CEO John Gerzema. “What everyone can agree on is the importance of building a resilient, crisis-prepared society, underscoring a collective commitment to societal progress."

The new report is part of The Milken Institute-Harris Poll Listening Project, now in its 5th year, which surveys socio-economic, institutional, and political barriers to evaluate key global and national challenges. This year’s research is focused on the U.S. and U.S. economy with the poll surveying 500 U.S. business leaders and 4,000 American adults 18+. Key findings include:

• Business Optimism vs. Consumer Caution: A Tale of Two Perspectives on the Economy
  While business leaders show confidence in the future, consumer sentiment lags. Most business leaders believe the U.S. economy (81%), their respective industries (81%), and their own companies (81%) are strong. In contrast, only (40%) of Americans concur that the economy is strong. And (72%) of Americans agree that “economists may say things are getting better, but we’re not feeling it where I live.”