• Trump holds rally in Pennsylvania to address economic concerns.
• Claims his policies are reducing prices and improving wages.
• Continues to blame Democrats for inflation and affordability issues.
• Polling shows declining public confidence in his economic management.
• Trump asserts his economic record while facing criticism over rising living costs.

President Donald Trump addressed rising affordability issues during a rally in Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania, asserting that his administration is effectively dealing with economic challenges. Claiming that "prices are coming down tremendously from the highest prices in the history of our country," he pushed back against Democratic criticisms, labeling them as a "hoax." Trump's rally marks a shift from his usual focus on these topics in the White House to a more direct engagement with voters, aiming to restore trust as polling indicates waning confidence in his economic leadership, according to BBC and Los Angeles Times.

During the rally, Trump emphasized that his policies have led to lower prices and higher wages, despite significant public skepticism regarding his claims about inflation. He insisted, "We’re bringing those prices down rapidly" and criticized the Democrats for creating an "affordability crisis." This assertion comes amid reports that just 33% of Americans approve of his handling of economic matters, highlighting the challenging environment for Trump as he gears up for the 2026 midterms, according to India Times and Anadolu Agency.

Trump's speech included claims that oil production is at record levels and that prices for essential goods, including fuel and rent, are dropping. He stated that, on his watch, "rent prices are down" and that Thanksgiving turkey prices have decreased by 33% compared to the "Biden era." Despite his positive assertions, he is countering criticism from both political opponents and economic analysts who warn that inflation persists due in part to policies like the tariffs he instituted, which have led to higher consumer costs, according to BBC, Los Angeles Times, and India Times.

Furthermore, his campaign approach indicates a desire to remain actively engaged with constituents, especially as critical congressional races loom in the upcoming midterms. His chief of staff, Susie Wiles, indicated that Trump plans to campaign aggressively, aiming to mobilize voters who traditionally support him, despite a general sentiment of dissatisfaction regarding economic conditions. Wiles stated he will act as if he were still on the ballot, which underscores the administration's strategy to leverage his presence in local races, according to Los Angeles Times and Anadolu Agency.