WASHINGTON (AP) — As the midterm elections approach, President Donald Trump is facing significant criticism about rising inflation, which he had promised to control. Voters are feeling the squeeze as everyday costs continue to climb. For instance, filling a standard Ford F-150 truck now costs around $100, an increase of $30 from last year. Additionally, mortgage rates have surged, negatively impacting home sales and leaving many families struggling as consumer prices outpace wage growth.
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One week before the elections, which are seen as a referendum on Trump’s administration, he insists the nation is experiencing an economic "golden age." However, this optimism contrasts sharply with the frustrations voiced by voters, who blame him for escalating prices linked to his tariff policies and the ongoing war with Iran.
High diesel prices have exacerbated shipping and agricultural costs, creating challenges for Republicans in traditionally conservative states such as Iowa, Kansas, Ohio, and Texas, where Democrats have gained ground in separate races relevant to Trump’s future in office.
"The costs of things are absolutely the first thing people talk about," said Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO. "It's a double whammy."
Gas prices have emerged as a critical issue for voters. Stephen Moore, a former advisor to Trump, noted the public's discontent, pointing to the war with Iran as significantly impacting the economy.
In South Carolina, voters expressed frustration over rising costs. Misty Reeder, 48, mentioned the increasing burden of rent and remarked, "Something's gotta give." Sandra Capell, 69, despite voting Republican, called for changes in economic policy, highlighting the struggles many face with rising grocery and gas expenses.
Beti Rosales, who runs a family restaurant in Pennsylvania, shared her disappointment with the current economic situation, stating that everything has become more expensive since she initially supported Trump.
During his 2024 campaign, Trump has blamed President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for inflation, which peaked at 9.1% in June 2022. He promised to lower gasoline prices and stimulate economic growth, claiming he would end inflation with voters’ support.
Despite Trump’s economic initiatives, which include punitive tariffs and significant tax cuts, inflation remains a persistent issue, overshadowing some of the positive economic indicators, like low unemployment. While he characterizes inflation as under control, consumers continue to experience its effects.
Democrats are capitalizing on this economic discontent, using inflation as a rallying point to sway voters in traditionally Republican districts. Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff recently criticized Trump, asserting that under his leadership costs have soared, impacting everyday Americans.
Candidates such as Cait Conley, contesting in New York, have echoed similar sentiments, encouraging voters to assess their financial realities. They argue that Trump's policies have disproportionately favored wealthy donors at the expense of average citizens.
As Democrats target the economic pain felt by voters, Republicans find themselves navigating a challenging political landscape, trying to redirect focus to economic strengths while acknowledging the public's financial stress. Some Trump supporters maintain a positive outlook, believing the economy is improving, but the overall sentiment among voters suggests that inflation will be a key issue in the upcoming elections.
Contributing to this report were Meg Kinnard in Easley, S.C.; Mike Catalini in Allentown, Pa.; and Jesse Bedayn in Round Rock, Texas.