APTOPIX Energy Crisis

A ticker shows diesel gas charges as James Navarro fuels his tow truck Friday, May 15, 2026, in Arlington, Texas.

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Brass bands in Beijing make way for sticker shock at home as Trump returns to escalating inflation

Brass bands in Beijing make way for sticker shock at home as Trump returns to escalating inflation

President Donald Trump has returned from his state visit to China to face a challenging U.S. economy. Consumer inflation rose to 3.8% annually in April, driven by the Iran war and tariffs. The Cleveland Federal Reserve estimates inflation could reach 4.2% in May. Trump's trip to China seems unlikely to help despite his claims of trade deals. Many U.S. voters are facing rising costs for essentials. Democrats criticize Trump for being indifferent to inflation concerns. Trump insists he's focused on growth and affordability, but inflation continues to affect businesses and interest rates. The November elections could be influenced by these economic pressures.