President Trump will visit northeastern Pennsylvania to highlight his economic agenda amid widespread voter concern about inflation and affordability. An October NBC News poll found nearly two-thirds of Americans believe he has not delivered on promises to reduce costs and boost growth. The White House points to policies like proposed 'baby bonds,' prescription drug reforms and a rollback of fuel-efficiency standards, while Republicans warn economic strain could imperil House control and Democrats press GOP lawmakers over expiring ACA subsidies.
Trump Visits Northeastern Pennsylvania To Tout Economic Agenda Amid Affordability Concerns
Trump Visits Northeastern Pennsylvania To Tout Economic Agenda
President Donald Trump will travel to northeastern Pennsylvania on Tuesday to promote his economic agenda as public concern persists over inflation and household affordability. The trip is intended to reinforce the administration's message that its policies have strengthened the economy while arguing it is reversing damage attributed to the previous administration.
An October NBC News survey found nearly two-thirds of respondents believe Mr. Trump is not delivering on promises to reduce costs and 'supercharge' economic growth. White House officials counter that their policies have improved growth and household finances, but acknowledge the administration must do more to persuade skeptical voters.
"It's more of a narrative thing than it is a substantive thing," a White House official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity. "With the trip coming up here, it's more to reiterate or underscore, 'Guys, we've been working on this since Day 1.' That's not changing anytime soon."
Republican lawmakers are increasingly worried that lingering economic pain — from inflation and higher interest rates to a tighter labor market — could jeopardize the GOP's slim hold on the House in next year's midterms. A Republican strategist working on midterm campaigns said dozens of members and senators have been voicing concerns about affordability to anyone who will listen.
The administration's messaging has sometimes been uneven: aides point to specific proposals they say help households, while the president has at times dismissed affordability concerns as a 'con job' or a 'hoax.' White House officials say those comments are intended to shift blame to Democrats for underlying problems they attribute to the prior administration.
On Wednesday, Mr. Trump announced plans to roll back fuel-efficiency standards as part of an effort to lower vehicle prices. His aides also highlight proposals such as so-called 'baby bonds' and steps to reduce prescription drug costs as evidence of the administration's focus on helping families manage expenses.
Democrats have made affordability a central campaign theme in recent state and local races. With Affordable Care Act subsidies set to expire at year-end, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee is targeting vulnerable Republican members, warning that inaction could deepen hardships for millions.
"The clock is ticking for Congress to take action on fixing the Republican health care crisis, but the so-called moderates are refusing to act," DCCC spokesperson Justin Chermol said in a statement. "These phonies will be held accountable for their cruelty next year."
This visit to a politically competitive region underscores the administration's heightened sensitivity to voter perceptions about the economy and the need to refine its narrative heading into the midterm elections.
Originally published on NBCNews.com
Help us improve.
