The IBD/TIPP Economic Optimism Index, a leading national poll on consumer confidence, dropped across every category in October. The index overall fell by 5.8 percent to 50.3, its lowest point in the last 12 months. Despite the decline, the index remains in positive territory, continuing its longest stretch in more than a decade. This month, respondents showed increasing discomfort with the direction of the country and its leadership. Interestingly, the only subcategories that remain in positive territory are those that relate to individuals’ financial lives. This is likely because the stock market continues to perform well.