Affordability Expected to Lead Democrats' Agenda After Midterm Win

Democrats are expected to put household costs near the top of their agenda when they take control of Congress in January, after price concerns featured prominently in the midterm outcome.

Since Trump began his second term, the consumer price index has risen about 5.4% cumulatively. Food prices have increased about 4.5%, and gasoline prices about 39% over the same period.

Before the election, about 90% of poll respondents considered living costs an important factor in their vote. Nearly two-thirds attributed inflation to Trump administration policies.

Republicans lost control of both chambers in the midterm result amid voter concerns about prices and economic pressure. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries said Democrats should focus on lowering living costs rather than political retaliation against Trump. Jeffries is expected to become House speaker in January 2027.