Staff Reports
The state of the economy is front and center in the minds of Americans, and a recent analysis has brought to light just how much things have changed since January of 2019. Back then, the dollar had a stronghold, but now the same dollar is only worth around 70 cents. This staggering reality brings a bit of pain to every shopper, showing the impact of rising inflation rates in our everyday lives.
The timeline of inflation paints a clear picture when comparing the years of Trump’s presidency to the current administration. After Trump stepped down, inflation took a sharp turn upward, calculating to a 22% rise during Biden’s term. This swell happened shortly after the new administration began, and families across the country felt it at the grocery store and the gas pump. Interestingly, before any tariffs implemented by Trump, inflation had already started making its presence known.
Gas prices are a primary concern, especially for those who rely on cars for daily commutes. Under Trump, the average price for a gallon of gas was around $2.50, a far cry from the $3.50 average reported during Biden’s early months in office. One might recall how Biden’s initiatives led to a host of new policies, including the controversial Green New Deal, which many feel expedited rising fuel costs. Rather than addressing rising inflation, it seemed to exacerbate the issue, prompting some to call for a return to the previous administration’s policies.
In a strategic move during a time that was crucial for political positioning—the midterm elections—Biden made headlines by draining the strategic petroleum reserve. Originally meant as a safeguard for crises, this reserve saw a dramatic cut that left 350 million barrels available, down from 650 million. While the immediate result included a slight drop in gas prices, once the pop of temporary relief fizzled, prices began creeping back up again. It’s a classic case of political gain versus long-term stability, leaving many voters questioning the wisdom of these energy policies.
However, with the midterms behind us, there’s a silver lining for conservatives looking for signs of recovery. Some reports indicate that under Trump’s continued influence, certain prices such as groceries, hotels, and even airfare have started to stabilize or decline. This seems to suggest that perhaps reverting to some of the prior administration’s policies could yield positive outcomes, particularly in a time when every penny counts.
As the economic landscape continues to unfold, one thing remains clear: the people are paying attention. With mixed messages coming from media and political figures alike, the average American just wants clarity and stability. Will we see policies adapted to reign back the rise in living costs? The conversation is ongoing, and voters will certainly be weighing their options carefully as they look to the future.
