In a small, quaint mountain town in northeastern Pennsylvania, President Trump kicked off his national tour for the 2026 midterm elections, emphasizing the government’s commitment to lowering the cost of living across the country.
On December 9th, President Trump addressed thousands of supporters, stating, “Bringing American prices back to reasonable levels is my top priority, and we are rapidly reducing prices.”
The audience at the event enthusiastically interacted with Trump, often chanting “USA” and “Four more years.”
President Trump elaborated on the ongoing efforts to curb inflation, which spiked during the pandemic and reached a high of 9.1% during the previous administration of President Biden.
Trump specifically noted that prices of certain foods, including butter, eggs, fruits, pasta, and rice, have begun to decline.
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the current inflation rate averages 2.7%.
The White House stated in a release that with inflation adjustments, wage growth this year is around 4%, giving Americans an additional purchasing power of $700, with projected increases reaching $1,200 annually.
Trump emphasized that the national average gasoline price has dropped to $2.95 per gallon, marking the lowest record in nearly 1,700 days. Data from the American Automobile Association (AAA) shows that at least 4 states have regular unleaded gasoline prices below $2 per gallon, while 36 states are below $3.
Trump highlighted that the decrease in mortgage rates is another positive signal, but he expressed hope for Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell to further lower interest rates.
Since returning to the White House, Trump has repeatedly criticized Powell for the slow pace of interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, stressing that even with tariff policies in place, inflation remains subdued.
Powell, in turn, stated that the institution needs to closely monitor the impact of Trump’s tariff policies and make cautious decisions based on data to fulfill its dual mandate of maintaining price stability and promoting full employment.
The Federal Reserve has already cut interest rates by 25 basis points in both September and October this year and is set to announce its latest rate decision on December 10.
In his address, Trump called on Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to investigate Biden’s use of an automatic signing pen, suggesting that some appointments of Federal Reserve Board members may be invalid.
Regarding broader economic issues, President Trump stated that relief measures are on the horizon. Trump said that tax-cut measures in the “Big and Beautiful Act,” including reducing taxes on overtime pay, tips, and social security benefits, will benefit the working class nationwide.
This new act is expected to increase the tax refunds for each taxpayer by around $1,000.
The White House mentioned that the repeal of climate-related regulations during Biden’s presidency also helps reduce costs, estimated to save American citizens a total of $180 billion, with an average saving of approximately $2,100 for a family of four.
Cabinet members present at the event stated that the positive effects of the government’s economic policies are already widely evident.
Bessent emphasized to the audience, “The policies (of Trump) are beginning to show results.”
Bessent criticized the Biden administration’s policies, which have led to increased spending and resource shortages.
Pennsylvania Republican lawmaker Ryan Mackenzie stated at the event that efforts to lower prices are ongoing, with a focus on reducing energy costs.
He said, “We still have a lot of work to do, and we will continue to make America great.”
Energy Secretary Chris Wright pointed out that states with the highest electricity prices, such as California, Hawaii, and New York, are all controlled by the Democratic Party.
Thousands of people braved the cold, standing in line for hours outside the Mount Airy Casino and Resort in Mount Pocono. Due to the overflowing conference hall, some attendees were accommodated in temporary meeting rooms.
On either side of the podium where the President delivered his speech were large banners stating “Lower Prices” and “Increase Wages.”
Hundreds of red “Make America Great Again” hats dotted the crowd, and a young man stood behind the President wearing a T-shirt that read “Persians for Trump.”
Many waved signs proclaiming “Trump gives us hope” and “Win back the House, save the nation,” with some urging Trump to make a third bid for the White House in 2028.
Dozens of attendees told The Epoch Times that they supported Trump in the election and came specifically to this small mountain town to express their unwavering support for him.
John Roberts, a resident of Philadelphia, stated, “We are here because he is the greatest president we have ever seen in our lifetime. He fights for us, for our children, for our grandchildren.”