Trump is “not even a little bit” concerned about the average American’s finances as Gas prices, food prices, and inflation are all rising with the Iran war.
Details. Since the outbreak of the Iran war in 2026, commodity prices have risen sharply. Oil prices have increased by more than 40%, while food prices have also risen significantly. For example, tomato prices are up about 40%, ground beef prices have risen by 19%, and coffee prices have increased by 29%.
► The OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) projects US inflation will reach 4.2% in 2026, up sharply from its pre-war forecast of about 2.8%, citing the Iran war's impact on energy prices, fertilizer costs, and supply-chain disruptions.
► In an interview on the White House South Lawn, on the question if the financial situation of the Americans motivated Trump to deal with Iran, he replied, “I don’t think about Americans’ financial situation," and said that he is focused solely on preventing Iran from “having a nuclear weapon."
Context. Before taking office, Trump campaigned with an “America First” message focused on reducing the cost of living. He repeatedly promised to "slash your energy prices in half within 12 months”. He also told voters, "When I win, I will immediately bring prices down, starting on Day One".
► Since the war in Iran began, working-class Americans have faced soaring costs for gasoline, groceries, and other essentials, while Wall Street has largely prospered. The S&P 500 has risen for nine consecutive weeks, oil companies have benefited from higher energy prices, defence contractors have profited from increased military spending, and fertiliser producers have gained from sharp commodity price rises.