By Ginika Igboke
President Donald Trump told a packed and enthusiastic crowd on Dec. 9 that his administration’s economic agenda is beginning to ease the cost-of-living pressures facing American families, declaring affordability his top priority as president.
“I have no higher priority than making America affordable again,” Trump said to cheers from thousands of supporters. “We’re bringing prices down rapidly.”
Speaking in a small mountain town in northeastern Pennsylvania, Trump focused heavily on the economy, a theme that dominated his remarks throughout the evening. Supporters responded with sustained applause and frequent chants of “USA” and “four more years,” creating a lively atmosphere inside the venue despite freezing temperatures outside.
The president pointed to progress in combating inflation, which surged during the COVID-19 pandemic and peaked at 9.1 percent under the previous administration. Trump said inflation has since moderated, citing government data showing it now averages about 2.7 percent.
He highlighted price declines across several everyday grocery items, including butter, eggs, fruit, pasta, and rice, saying these reductions are beginning to ease household budgets. Trump also emphasized wage growth, noting that after adjusting for inflation, wages have risen by roughly 4 percent this year. According to the White House, that increase translates into about $700 in additional spending power for the average American, with projections estimating it could rise to $1,200 annually.
Energy costs were another focal point of Trump’s remarks. He said gasoline prices have fallen to their lowest national average in nearly 1,700 days, at roughly $2.95 per gallon. Regular unleaded gas is now below $2 per gallon in at least four states and under $3 per gallon in 36 states, according to AAA. Trump argued that lower fuel prices ripple through the economy by reducing transportation and manufacturing costs.
Mortgage rates, he added, are also showing signs of improvement, though he expressed frustration with the Federal Reserve for not moving more aggressively to cut interest rates. Trump again criticized Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, arguing that inflation remains low even with the administration’s tariffs in place.
The Federal Reserve has said it is taking a cautious, data-driven approach as it assesses the economic impact of tariffs and broader fiscal policies. The central bank implemented two interest rate cuts of 25 basis points each in September and October, with another rate decision scheduled for Dec. 10.
During his speech, Trump also directed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to examine the previous administration’s use of the autopen, suggesting that some appointments, including those involving the Federal Reserve, could warrant further scrutiny.
Looking ahead, Trump said more economic relief is coming through recently passed tax legislation. Provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, he said, will reduce taxes on overtime pay, tips, and Social Security benefits, increasing take-home pay for workers and retirees. The White House estimates the law will boost tax refunds by about $1,000 per filer.
Trump also credited deregulation for helping to lower costs, particularly by rolling back climate-related rules implemented under the Biden administration. According to the White House, these changes are expected to save Americans a collective $180 billion, averaging about $2,100 for a family of four.
Several administration officials and lawmakers echoed the president’s message during the event. Treasury Secretary Bessent told the audience that the administration’s policies are already producing tangible results, while sharply criticizing the previous administration’s spending.
“Biden ran up America’s credit card and left us here to pay the bill,” Bessent said.
Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-Pa.) said efforts to lower prices are ongoing, particularly in the energy sector. Energy Secretary Chris Wright noted that states with the highest electricity prices, such as California, Hawaii, and New York, are governed by Democrats, arguing that regulatory choices have contributed to higher costs.
Thousands of supporters waited for hours in frigid conditions outside the Mount Airy Casino and Resort, where the rally was held. An overflow room was opened to accommodate those unable to fit into the main ballroom. Inside, Trump spoke from a podium flanked by large signs reading “Lower Prices” and “Bigger Paychecks.”
The crowd was dotted with red “Make America Great Again” hats, campaign placards, and homemade signs. Some attendees waved messages reading “Trump gives us hope” and “Win the House, Save the Country,” while others openly called for a third Trump presidency in 2028.
Many supporters said they traveled long distances to attend the rally and show their support.
“We’re here because he’s the greatest president in our lifetime,” said John Roberts of Philadelphia. “He’s fighting for us, for our kids, and for our grandkids.”
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