Wall Street Journal (01/20/15) Janet Hook

Recent improvements in the U.S. economy have fueled economic optimism, according to a poll by the Wall Street Journal and NBC News. About 50% of the 800 American adults surveyed said the past year brought important economic improvements, a post-recession high; and more than 40% of respondents said they are satisfied with the state of the economy—the most upbeat reading in over eight years. Consumer optimism about the economy is partially tied to plunging gas prices, an improving job market, and other signs of economic growth. About 45% are satisfied with the state of the economy, up from 28% in 2014, and about 54% are dissatisfied, down from 71% in 2014.