by Shane Croucher
Newsweek
Voter dissatisfaction with the economy, particularly the high cost of living after post-COVID inflation, helped bring Donald Trump back to the White House.
Inflation peaked at 9.1 percent in June 2022, driven by disrupted supply chains, stimulus spending, and global energy prices. Despite recovery efforts, many Americans still felt worse off by the 2024 election.
Trump’s campaign promised to “end inflation” and “make America affordable again,” but some policies could raise prices.
Additional tariffs and mass deportations might increase wages but also production costs. His plans to extend tax cuts could stimulate spending but, if they increase the deficit and federal debt, also drive up interest rates.