FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
Four in 10 Americans say the U.S. economy is growing.
That's up from 27% last April and just 3% in 2008.
The flip side of the new USA Today/Gallup Poll is that 46% say the economy is in a recession or a depression.
But the survey definitely suggests a growing optimism about the economy.
It's reflected among both men and women and among all age groups, regions of the country and political parties.
However, politics still does play a role here: Democrats, nonwhites and self-described liberals are the most likely to believe the economy is growing.
Republicans and conservatives are the least likely to see the glass half full.
In what might be a sign of concern for President Obama, about half of independents say we're in a recession or depression.
There are several factors causing concern for many Americans when it comes to their "personal economy."
For starters, the housing market – the biggest asset for many – is still in trouble.
Home prices recently fell to their lowest point in more than a decade.
Then there are surging gasoline prices, which affect nearly everyone.
AAA reports gas prices hit a national average of $3.77 a gallon, up for the 27th day in a row. In several states, gas is already at or near $4 a gallon.
Some economists worry that high gas prices could be the tipping point that brings a new economic downturn.
Here’s my question to you: Is your personal economy improving?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Joan:
When my husband was laid off this February, our personal economy took a large hit. He has had a few interviews, but no one's picked him up yet. I have read all the news reports about the improvement of our national economy – but that's not what we're seeing at home right now.
Kim:
Yes, my personal economy has improved dramatically. I've been a freelance writer for 10 years, and my workload plummeted in late 2008 and through 2009. In 2010, many of my editors/clients, whose budgets had been downsized, started calling again and my income bounced back up. This year, I'm busier than ever.
Joe:
No. Every time I think I am, I have to get gas again. And if that isn't enough my job is coming to an end in 9 short weeks.
Andrew:
If I were receiving so-called "FREE" money from the government, I would probably say the economy is getting better. But if I'm like the 50% who pay taxes, the economy stinks. The question should be are you better off than you were four years ago? And the answer is a big NO.
Frank in Scottsdale, Arizona:
Jack, I’m a small business owner in Scottsdale and January and February have been the best months since 2008. So I do see economic improvement.
Keith:
I'm a Republican and it hurts to say 'Yes, my economy is getting better'. But being in the 1%, I win either way. If the economy improves under Obama, I win. If Romney wins, he will reward those who put him in the Oval office... I win again.
Jeff in Minnesota:
If that means it sucks a bit less, I suppose it is improving… but I still feel like I'm losing ground.