Rising inflation in September pushed prices higher for American consumers just ahead of the midterm elections, as Democrats emphasize economic struggles to challenge Republican control of Congress. The latest consumer price index report showed annual inflation at 3.7 percent, with energy, gas, and electricity costs driving much of the increase. The timing of the report adds pressure to the political debate over affordability ahead of voting. Economists and policymakers will closely watch whether the trend continues as inflation remains a key issue in the election.
September’s uptick in inflation dealt Americans with higher prices just before the midterm elections, as Democrats seek to wrestle back control of Congress from the GOP by highlighting affordability concerns. Annual inflation was 3.7 percent last month, according to the consumer price index (CPI). On a monthly basis, the cost of energy, gas and electricity...
