Payam Javan: President Donald Trump told thousands of supporters at a rally on Dec. 9 in northeastern Pennsylvania that his administration’s economic policies are driving down the cost of living nationwide. Speaking in a packed ballroom at Mount Airy Casino and Resort, Trump said restoring affordability is his top priority, arguing that prices are falling and Americans are beginning to feel tangible financial relief.
Trump pointed to easing inflation as a key achievement, noting that consumer price growth has moderated to an average of 2.7 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, down from a pandemic-era peak of 9.1 percent. He highlighted lower prices for everyday grocery items such as eggs, butter, fruit, pasta, and rice, as well as declining fuel costs. Gasoline prices have dropped to a national average of about $2.95 per gallon, with significantly lower prices reported in dozens of states, according to AAA.
The president also emphasized rising wages and improving household finances. Adjusted for inflation, wages have increased roughly 4 percent this year, providing Americans with an estimated $700 in additional spending power, a figure the White House expects to grow to $1,200 annually. Trump cited falling mortgage rates as another positive indicator, while renewing criticism of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell and urging further interest rate cuts ahead of the Fed’s upcoming policy announcement.
Looking ahead, Trump said recently enacted tax cuts under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act would further ease financial pressure by reducing taxes on overtime, tips, and Social Security benefits, increasing refunds by about $1,000 per filer. Administration officials and Republican lawmakers attending the rally echoed his message, crediting deregulation and energy policy changes for lowering costs and criticizing the Biden administration’s spending record. Despite freezing temperatures outside, supporters filled the venue and overflow areas, chanting slogans and displaying signs backing Trump’s economic agenda.
