Amidst a backdrop of soaring prices, President Trump's claim that inflation is 'over' has been challenged by a recent poll. The survey, conducted for the Guardian, reveals that 75% of Americans report rising monthly costs, with 74% of respondents noting increases of at least $100. This finding contradicts Trump's assertion of 'virtually no inflation' and his claim that prices are 'WAY DOWN' in the USA. The poll's timing is significant, as it was conducted nine months after Trump's inauguration, during which he promised to reduce prices 'starting on day one'. The inflation rate, while declining from its peak of over 9% in 2022, still hovers above the Federal Reserve's target of 2%. Economists at the Yale Budget Lab estimate an average annual increase of $2,300 in household costs due to Trump's tariffs, translating to $191 per month. This economic sentiment is reflected in the presidential election, where many perceive it as a referendum on Biden's economy, with inflation being the top concern for Republicans and independents. However, the poll also highlights a shift in public perception. While Republicans are less likely to blame tariffs on price increases, independents are just as willing as Democrats to point to tariffs as an issue. This shift in sentiment may impact the midterm elections, as economic dissatisfaction was a boon for Republicans in the last election. Despite this, Democratic policies, such as a federal ban on price gouging and expanding the child tax credit, remain popular among voters, challenging Trump's economic agenda.
