Kansas Residents Report Economic Worries in Survey
A new poll reveals that most Kansans believe the national economy is trending in the wrong direction.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Employment
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The 2026 Kansas Speaks survey from the Docking Institute of Public Affairs finds that nearly half of residents view the state economy as worsening. Additionally, 63.5% of respondents feel the national economy is declining.
Why it matters
The findings highlight the significant impact of living costs on public sentiment in Kansas, with nearly 90% of residents citing grocery prices as a top priority. This data underscores a widespread concern regarding financial stability at both the state and national levels.
A survey of 603 adult residents shows that 20.4% rate the state economy as excellent or very good, while 48.6% believe it is getting worse. These figures provide a baseline for local sentiment following 2025 economic benchmarks.
The players
Docking Institute of Public Affairs
This research center is based at Fort Hays State University and produces the annual Kansas Speaks survey to gauge public opinion on policy and social issues.
Wichita State University
This public research university collaborated with researchers to establish the content and methodology for the state-wide survey.
Emporia State University
This state institution worked alongside researchers to design the survey questions and analyze the public opinion data.
The details
Researchers partnered with political scientists from Wichita State University and Emporia State University to analyze public sentiment on policy issues. The study also revealed strong support for social programs, with 69% of residents favoring paid family and medical leave and 68% supporting Medicaid expansion.
Timeline
The survey results were officially released on October 26, 2026.
Economic ratings were compared against a 2025 baseline year.
Macro View
The findings on Kansas public opinion show strong support for the Medicaid expansion program, which remains a focal point of current legislative debate. This survey data follows the pattern of established policy discussions within the state, indicating a potential disconnect between resident priorities and current law.
Residents may see these results influence upcoming legislative agendas regarding grocery taxes and healthcare access. The high concern over rising costs suggests that local policymakers will face increased pressure to address household budgets in the next session.
The takeaway
Economic sentiment in Kansas is currently dominated by concerns over the rising cost of everyday goods like groceries. Residents overwhelmingly favor policy interventions such as paid family leave and Medicaid expansion to address these financial strains.
Further reading
For additional context on the labor and economic landscape in the state, visit the Employment section.
More information
View the complete 2026 Kansas Speaks Survey results for a detailed breakdown of all public opinion data.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Manila times.
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