US inflation increased at fastest pace in three years in April as Iran war hikes up prices

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US inflation rose at the fastest rate in three years in April, mainly driven by increases in energy prices linked to the conflict with Iran. The rising cost of living is affecting household incomes and consumer confidence, resulting in declining support for President Trump ahead of midterm elections.

Americans are growing frustrated with Trump’s handling of the economy as cost of living soars ahead of midterms US inflation increased at its fastest pace in three years in April, driven by higher energy prices amid the war with Iran, and cementing economists’ views that the Federal Reserve could hold interest rates unchanged well into next year. Surging price pressures are eroding household income and could restrain consumer spending and economic growth this quarter. Income at the disposal of households after adjusting for inflation dropped for a third straight month in April, other data showed on Thursday. Given the soaring cost of living, Americans are growing frustrated with Donald Trump’s handling of the economy. A Reuters/Ipsos survey last week showed the president’s approval rating fell to nearly its lowest level since he returned to the White House, hit by a drop in support among Republicans. Trump won the 2024 presidential election in large part because of his promise to lower inflation. Continue reading...