A recent comprehensive survey conducted by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda has revealed growing financial anxiety among Black adults in Florida. Over several weeks, researchers interviewed more than 500 individuals, uncovering widespread concerns about economic stability and the nation’s trajectory. n nThe findings indicate that nearly half of respondents—45%—have less than $500 in savings, while 43% reported struggling to afford basic necessities like food and housing. These financial pressures are contributing to a generally pessimistic outlook on the future, especially as the 2026 elections approach and affordability remains a central issue. n nFlorida’s political landscape reflects this tension, with Republicans advocating for property tax reductions and Democrats pushing for reforms to counter rising insurance costs. Meanwhile, health insurance premiums on the federal exchange are expected to rise sharply unless Congress renews expiring Affordable Care Act subsidies. n nConcerns extend beyond finances: 76% of participants expressed fear that living expenses would increase under a potential Trump administration, and 66% believe Black communities would face greater racial discrimination and loss of rights. However, a notable segment of younger Black men remain optimistic. Among those aged 18 to 44, half viewed Trump’s election positively, and 44% said they expect to feel safer during his presidency—a demographic trend that may have influenced minority support in the 2024 election. n nOn reproductive rights, 69% of respondents believe abortion should be legal in most or all cases. Regarding healthcare access, 58% reported that they or a family member have relied on Medicaid at some point. Of those, 93% said the program is important to their well-being, with 72% describing it as “very important.” Despite its value, 32% said they’ve had difficulty finding healthcare providers who accept Medicaid. n nFamily planning decisions are also shaped by economic strain. Among Black women aged 18–44, 54% said they desire more children, but only 29% plan to have them, citing high costs for food, housing, childcare, and medical care. Mental health concerns are prevalent, particularly among younger women: 66% of those aged 18–44 reported worrying about their mental health at least weekly, compared to 57% of men in the same age group. For those aged 45 and older, 42% of women and 48% of men shared similar concerns. n— news from WLRN
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Survey shows Black Floridians are worried about their economic futures
Black Floridians are worried about their economic futures and stressed about the direction of the country, according to a comprehensive survey done this summer by a group that has researched Black attitudes over the past decade. n nIn Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda questioned more than 500 Black adults over several weeks and discovered that many of those who answered had insecurity about their finances. n nThe survey found that 45% said they had less than $500 in savings, while 43% said they don’t have enough money to pay for food and housing. Many of those who responded had a pessimistic view of what lies ahead. n nThese findings come as affordability continues to be a major issue ahead of the 2026 elections. Florida Republicans say they plan to push ahead with ways to cut property taxes, while Democrats argue that steps should be taken to address years of property insurance hikes. Health insurance premiums for plans purchased on the federal healthcare exchange are expected to spike unless Congress steps in and restores Obamacare subsidies that are set to expire at the end of the year. n nMeanwhile, 76% of respondents said they fear the cost of living will go up under President Donald Trump, while 66% agreed that Black people will lose their rights and endure more racial discrimination. n nBut the survey did find that a large segment of younger Black men — a component that may have helped Trump make inroads with minorities in the 2024 election — retain a positive outlook because Trump won. Fifty percent of Black men between the ages of 18 and 44 said they felt positively about Trump’s election and 44% said they will feel safer and secure under his presidency. n nThe survey also asked questions about policy including abortion; 69% of those who responded said abortion should be legal in all or most cases. n nIn terms of health care, 58% said they or a family member has had Medicaid coverage at some point in their lives. And of those who have been on Medicaid, 93% said the safety-net program for the poor, elderly, and disabled is important to them or their families, including 72% who said it’s been “very important.” n nDespite the importance of Medicaid, 32% of the respondents report having had trouble finding a Medicaid-participating provider to care for them. n nMore than half of the Black women aged 18-44 surveyed (54%) said they want more children but just 29% plan to have them. Those respondents reported rising food, housing, health care. and childcare prices as reasons why. n nMental health is of concern to Black Floridians, the survey shows, particularly among young females. Sixty-six percent of Black women aged 18-44 said they worried about their mental health at least once a week, compared to 57% of men the same age. Forty-two percent of women aged 45 and older said they worry about their mental health at least once a week, compared to 48% of men.