During a Cabinet meeting, President Donald Trump addressed concerns about affordability, claiming that the term is a "Democrat scam" and asserting that voters' worries about rising prices are unfounded. This statement comes as polls reveal that a significant portion of the American public blames Trump for escalating prices on essential goods.

Trump inaccurately stated that electricity prices are decreasing, while many Americans are facing higher utility bills, largely attributed to the energy demands of artificial intelligence data centers. He characterized the public's concerns about increased costs as mere fabrications, stating, "The word 'affordability' is a Democrat scam."

A recent Yahoo/YouGov poll indicates that 49% of Americans believe Trump's policies have contributed to price increases over the past year, compared to only 24% who feel he has lowered costs. The survey also shows that voters are more inclined to hold Trump accountable for rising prices than former President Joe Biden.

Throughout his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump emphasized affordability, promising to reduce grocery costs from his first day in office. However, his administration has implemented substantial tariffs on various imported goods, which economists argue have exacerbated price increases.

Democratic representatives have criticized Trump's dismissal of affordability concerns. Rep. Darren Soto (D-Fla.) highlighted the contradiction between Trump's promises and his current stance, while Rep. Brad Schneider (D-Ill.) suggested that Trump is attempting to dismiss Americans' economic anxieties. Rep. Sylvia Garcia (D-Texas) remarked that Trump's comments reflect a disconnect from the realities faced by working families, who struggle with the costs of living, healthcare, and housing.