Overview
- Trump told Fox News that polls showing economic anxiety are “fake” and said concerns about prices are a Democratic “con job,” while asserting “costs are way down” and predicting gas near $2.
- Official figures show consumer prices up roughly 3% year over year in September and AAA lists average gas near $3.07, undercutting claims that prices are broadly falling.
- White House officials acknowledge a political problem on affordability and are weighing more domestic travel, economy-focused speeches and coordinated messaging to address voter concerns.
- The administration has floated ideas including $2,000 tariff rebate checks for lower- and middle-income Americans, potential drug-price deals, scrutiny of meatpackers and a proposed 50‑year mortgage.
- Recent polls indicate many Americans say they’re paying more and blame Trump’s policies, while economists warn of slowing wage growth and softer labor conditions that could deepen GOP risks heading into 2026.