By John Q. Hosedrinker 
President Trump’s claim of declining grocery prices is contradicted by a recent Axios-Harris Poll. The survey indicates that nearly half of Americans find it harder to afford groceries compared to a year ago. This discontent may be fueled by rising prices for staples like eggs, ground beef, and coffee. With the majority of Americans perceiving the president as having a significant influence on the economy, these concerns could pose a challenge for the administration heading into the 2026 midterms.
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Trump insists grocery prices are down. Do Americans buy it? The simple answer, echoing throughout the online discourse, is a resounding “no.” The reality, as experienced by everyday Americans navigating their local supermarkets, directly contradicts the former President’s claim. Across the board, from the cost of a box of Oreos to a bag of basic staples, the sentiment is clear: prices are not decreasing. They’re going up, often significantly.
The chorus of dissatisfaction is readily apparent. Shoppers are reporting double-digit percentage increases on everyday items. One person recalls paying over $7 for a single box of Oreos, while another recounts a $69 grocery bill for a single bag of essentials. Even the price of basics like bell peppers, eggs, and a simple bag of groceries have skyrocketed. These firsthand accounts paint a vivid picture of a financial strain that is being directly felt.
The anger towards the claim that groceries are cheaper is palpable. It is not just about disagreeing with a statement; it is about feeling the pinch of increased costs. The price of meat, vegetables, and dairy is cited frequently. The cost of eggs, once a relatively inexpensive staple, has doubled or even tripled in some areas. Consumers are left wondering how anyone, especially someone seemingly disconnected from the realities of grocery shopping, could make such a claim.
The sentiment that Trump is out of touch is also a key aspect of the reactions. Multiple commenters point out his perceived lack of experience with grocery shopping. The idea that someone who has never had to worry about the cost of food could accurately assess the market’s state is met with understandable skepticism. This fuels the perception of a disconnect between the former President’s words and the lived experiences of average Americans. The fact that he may not know the cost of milk, or other basic items further emphasizes this feeling.
The debate around responsibility is also present. While the claim that grocery prices are down is being refuted, the reasons behind the rise are being discussed. The COVID-19 pandemic, with its initial supply chain disruptions, is mentioned as a contributing factor. Then there is the specter of tariffs, which, it is being observed, could further complicate the situation. Regardless of where the blame ultimately lies, the consensus is clear: Trump’s assertion doesn’t align with the current economic reality.
The responses also reveal a frustration with perceived political biases. Some express the view that some people will blindly accept Trump’s statements, regardless of the evidence to the contrary. The term “cult” is used to describe this phenomenon. People feel that some supporters are unwilling to acknowledge economic truths if those truths contradict their beliefs. This reveals a deeper concern about the role of misinformation and the difficulty of reaching a shared understanding of economic facts.
The debate is not just confined to the realm of personal experiences. Some have turned to independent surveys to get a clearer picture. The findings reveal a divergence in the experiences of Americans, with the majority reporting that groceries are becoming harder to afford. The numbers demonstrate that this is an issue for a broad spectrum of the population and the political arena.
One thing that is clear is that the issue of grocery prices is more than just a matter of debate: it is a point of stress for many. Inflation, supply chain issues, and political policies all contribute to the rise in food costs. The claim that things are getting better when all evidence points to the contrary has not been well-received. Trump’s statement has resonated poorly with the American public, further highlighting the economic concerns many are facing.