Consumer prices rose 4.2% in May year-over-year, surpassing the previous month's 3.8% increase — a three-year high driven partly by President Donald Trump's Iran war, pushing energy costs higher.
CNN's Jeff Zeleny warned, elevated consumer prices could become a lasting political liability even if they decline before the election.
Additionally, a leaked National Republican Senatorial Committee memo acknowledges affordability concerns are driving midterm races, warning against complacency in Maine despite Democratic candidate Graham Platner's controversial primary win.
The memo acknowledges how voter anger over rising costs gives Platner a genuine opportunity to unseat GOP Sen. Susan Collins.
Zeleny also noted Wisconsin farmers and dairy farmers express deep concern about rising prices, with the ongoing Iran war offering no end in sight.
All factors combined create what Zeleny characterized as huge warning signs for Republicans heading into the midterm elections.
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