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Trump Says Iran Talks Prioritize Oil Over Americans' Finances

5/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

President Donald Trump told an interview he does not consider Americans' financial hardships while negotiating with Iran.
He said he thinks about Americans' finances “not a little bit” during Iran talks, calling pain necessary for low oil prices and to stop Iran's nuclear weapons.
He cited 401(k) balances and a rising stock market as evidence of a healthy economy, though polls show most Republican voters blame him for economic troubles.

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Story summary

President Donald Trump told an interview he does not consider Americans' financial hardships while negotiating with Iran.
He said he thinks about Americans' finances “not a little bit” during Iran talks, calling pain necessary for low oil prices and to stop Iran's nuclear weapons.
He cited 401(k) balances and a rising stock market as evidence of a healthy economy, though polls show most Republican voters blame him for economic troubles.