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Just dropped · Trial Balloon · Ep. 194

What Just Happened?

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Trial Balloon · Ep. 194: What Just Happened?

Inflation Anvil Continues to Hang Around GOP’s Necks

October 14, 2026 · 4:02 pm ET · Leave a Comment

Punchbowl News: “Inflation continues to crush Republicans, with Election Day less than three weeks away.”

“The Consumer Price Index, a solid gauge of changes in prices for Americans, jumped 3.7% on an annual basis. The spike was driven by a sharp increase in energy prices — the price of gas is up an eye-watering 9.1%. The national average for a gallon of gas is $4.33, while diesel sits at $6.29.”

“The war in Iran has been a major liability for Republicans this election cycle, and Wednesday’s inflation report — showing the largest monthly increase in five months — is salt in the wound ahead of the midterms.”

“The price of gasoline alone accounted for more than half of the monthly spike in inflation.”

CNN: GOP senator said gas prices would decide the midterms. Now they’re threatening his reelection.

2026 Campaign, Economy

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Taegan Goddard

Taegan Goddard

Taegan Goddard is the founder of Political Wire -- which for more than two decades has been one of the nation's most influential political news sites.

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