Trump says “I love the inflation,” drawing bipartisan criticism
6 reported
President Donald Trump has made comments dismissing Americans' concerns about rising prices, including stating "I love the inflation" after a Bureau of Labor Statistics report showed prices rising at the fastest rate in three years. According to a Vox podcast interview with Semafor White House correspondent Shelby Talcott, Trump has repeatedly indicated he is not focused on Americans' economic situation while negotiating with Iran. Talcott reported that administration officials and Trump allies say the president is prioritizing his historical legacy over midterm election concerns. The comments have drawn criticism from supporters and opponents, baffled some Republicans, and delighted Democrats ahead of the 2026 midterms. Talcott noted that White House officials have tried to walk back Trump's statements, and that advisers including James Blair and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles have urged him to focus more on the midterms. However, Talcott said the president ultimately drives his own economic messaging.
What’s reported
Trump told reporters "I love the inflation" after the Bureau of Labor Statistics released figures showing prices rose at the fastest rate in three years.
Trump has repeatedly said he "doesn't care about inflation" and is not focused on Americans' economic situation while negotiating with Iran.
The comments have drawn criticism from supporters and opponents, baffled some Republicans, and delighted Democrats.
Shelby Talcott of Semafor reported that administration officials say Trump is focused on his historical legacy, not the midterms.
White House officials have tried to walk back Trump's statements, according to Talcott.
Advisers James Blair and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles have urged Trump to focus more on the midterms.
Key figures
President Donald Trump
Shelby Talcott, White House correspondent for Semafor
James Blair, Trump confidante
Susie Wiles, White House Chief of Staff
Noel King, co-host of Today, Explained
Sources: vox.com
