Despite the reassurances and rosy pictures being painted by those in DC, most Americans are feeling the pinch of the stumbling economy. Jack Cafferty asked Americans to tell him how the economy is affecting them, and the outlook is decidedly less rosy.

Ann from Newton, New Jersey writes:
I am over 70 years of age, unable to live on Social Security and still have to work to keep my head above water. With gas prices over $3.00 a gallon, food and heating rising, having to pay supplement health and prescription insurance, higher taxes, the water is now also rising past my lips. I hope I don’t drown too soon.

Jeff from Boston writes:
Jack, I was laid off on Friday of last week. My brother just called to let me know he was laid off today. Does that answer your question?