WASHINGTON – Americans are growing more confident in the economy, an encouraging sign for President Barack Obama’s prospects on the most pivotal issue in the presidential race.

A new survey of consumer confidence rose to a seven-month high Tuesday on expectations that hiring will soon pick up. And a separate report showed home values rising steadily, signaling sustained improvement in housing.

“This is like an opinion poll on the economy without the political parties attached,” said John Ryding, chief economist at RDQ Economics, a consulting firm. The confidence survey “says people are feeling better. If so, they are less likely to vote for change.”