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77% Blame Trump as Inflation Rises to 3.8%

5/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

President Donald Trump said he does not consider Americans' financial situation when negotiating with Iran.
Inflation rose to 3.8% year-over-year in April, driven by higher energy prices from the Iran war.
A CNN/SSRS poll found 77% of Americans blame President Donald Trump’s policies for higher living costs.
Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said Republicans offer no plan to lower costs.

History

Historical Context

The 1973 Arab oil embargo, launched by OAPEC after the Yom Kippur War, drove U.S. gasoline prices up 43% within a year and prompted Nixon to impose domestic oil price controls. The shock showed how geopolitical events can spike energy costs, a pattern echoed today as renewed Iran-U.S. tensions lift prices and fuel inflation concerns.

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Story summary

President Donald Trump said he does not consider Americans' financial situation when negotiating with Iran.
Inflation rose to 3.8% year-over-year in April, driven by higher energy prices from the Iran war.
A CNN/SSRS poll found 77% of Americans blame President Donald Trump’s policies for higher living costs.
Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said Republicans offer no plan to lower costs.

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