Trump Highlights Falling Prices, Opponents Argue Tariffs Are Raising Expenses

President Donald Trump is placing a renewed emphasis on affordability as a cornerstone of his economic strategy, using a major speech to

franchisees to showcase what he describes as progress in controlling inflation and keeping prices steady. Speaking at the McDonald's Impact Summit in Washington, Trump commended the fast-food chain for bringing back $5 and $8 Extra Value Meals, describing this as . Calling himself the chain's "most loyal customer ever," Trump of his administration's achievements in tackling what he called "historic inflation" under the previous administration.

The president's focus comes at a time of heightened political tension,

in states such as New Jersey, New York, and Virginia, where voters have placed affordability at the forefront of their concerns. Trump's team has rolled out a range of initiatives to counter rising prices, including reducing tariffs on over 200 imported foods like bananas, coffee, and beef, as well as to make housing more accessible. Still, many economists and business leaders remain unconvinced, —especially from Brazil and Argentina—have led to higher beef prices and put pressure on supply chains.

Although Trump maintains his policies are "solving the affordability crisis," detractors point to inconsistencies. For example, the consumer price index (CPI)

in September 2025, the same rate as when he assumed office. At the same time, the U.S. cattle population is at its lowest in 75 years, that have redirected beef exports to countries like China. "If you slap an extra 50% tariff on a major supplier such as Brazil, buyers might continue purchasing and pass on the costs, or they might stop altogether, but either way, there’s less supply to meet demand," said Dan Anthony, president of Trade Partnership Worldwide .

The administration has also sought to reshape trade relations in Latin America.

for Argentina, along with bilateral trade agreements with Ecuador, Guatemala, and El Salvador, is intended to reduce costs for everyday goods like coffee and bananas. These steps come after blaming Joe Biden for inflation and his recent change of stance on tariffs, which some experts interpret as a reaction to mounting public dissatisfaction over rising prices.

Nevertheless, political friction continues.

, a prominent opponent of Trump's economic agenda, has requested a meeting with the president to discuss the city's affordability issues. Mamdani has criticized Trump's administration for driving up costs through policies such as SNAP benefit reductions and tariffs, while to cut off federal funding to New York.

As Trump continues to champion his affordability platform, his administration must strike a balance between maintaining tariffs to support domestic producers and addressing the rising expenses that have shaken consumer confidence. With the midterm elections on the horizon and mixed economic signals, whether the president can persuade Americans that his policies are making life more affordable remains a crucial challenge.