On Tuesday night, President Donald Trump spoke in Pennsylvania, highlighting what he described as economic successes during his administration. This comes after Democrats secured significant victories in the 2025 elections, primarily focusing on affordability in their campaigns.
During his address at the Mount Pocono casino resort, Trump claimed, “They’re driving prices up, and we’re trying to bring prices down.” He emphasized the contrast between lowered prices and increased wages, stating, “We have inflation. We’re crushing it. And you’re getting much higher wages.” The stock market and 401(k) plans, he noted, are among the few things on the rise.
Affordability has emerged as a contentious issue leading up to the midterm elections. With Republicans refining their economic narratives, Trump’s remarks come after a Fox News poll revealed that about 76% of voters viewed the economy negatively, a rise from earlier months. Trump, however, seemed confident, suggesting he would give himself an “A-plus-plus-plus-plus” rating.
He asserted that real wages had suffered under Biden, plummeting by about $3,000, while they supposedly increased under his administration—$1,300 for factory workers and more for those in construction and mining. To illustrate his point, Trump referenced a Walmart report, comparing prices of Thanksgiving meals and noting that turkeys had dropped in price significantly.
He even pointed out that egg prices have decreased by 80% since March, exclaiming they’ve “dropped like a rock.”
Trump discussed how unlocking American energy resources could be a key strategy against inflation. Citing that 22 states now enjoy their lowest gas prices in seven years, with some stations selling gas at $1.99, he continued to paint a picture of economic recovery.
He also mentioned that mortgage rates were lower under his watch, alongside substantial levels of private investment compared to Biden’s administration. Trump expressed skepticism about the Democrats’ framing of affordability, suggesting it contradicts the reality of high prices experienced during their governance.
“It’s like Bonnie and Clyde preaching about public safety,” he quipped in regard to the Democrats’ rhetoric on affordability.
As he closed, Trump reiterated his stance that his policies were effective and that they didn’t require justification. His message was clear: the high prices and inflation, he claimed, stemmed from the Democratic policies, and he vowed to swiftly reduce them.
