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Today's Poll

In general, do you think the U.S. economy is improving?
Poll Description

Americans may be growing more optimistic about the economy, according to the newest Consumer Confidence Index.

The index rose in May after falling for three months in a row — defying the expectations of most analysts, who had expected another decline.

The measurement is based on national polling and released monthly by the Conference Board, a nonpartisan, nonprofit business think tank. The index measures the public's feelings about current economic conditions and for the next six months, with data from 1985 providing a baseline of 100 points.

Index ups and downs are widely used as a thermometer for predicting the health of the U.S. economy. In May, the Consumer Confidence Index shot to 102 from the April level of 97.5.

The Conference Board survey takes in a broad variety of data.

The organization's chief economist, Dana Peterson, summed up the latest findings: "Consumers’ assessment of current business conditions was slightly less positive than last month. However, the strong labor market continued to bolster consumers’ overall assessment of the present situation.

"Views of current labor market conditions improved in May ... Looking ahead, fewer consumers expected deterioration in future business conditions, job availability, and income."

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