Economy and inflation key issues for voters in 2026 midterm elections

As Americans prepare to vote in the 2026 midterm elections, the economy remains the top concern for many voters, according to NBC News. A recent NBC News Decision Desk Poll found that the economy is the most important issue to voters and that a majority express deep frustration with President Donald Trump on this front.

At the start of Trump's second term, wages were increasing faster than prices, but since the onset of the war with Iran, inflation has outpaced wage growth. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that in September, inflation rose to 3.7%, while wages increased by only 3% compared to the previous year.

Energy costs have been a significant factor in rising consumer prices. Regular gasoline prices averaged $3.12 per gallon at the beginning of Trump's second term and dropped slightly to $2.98 before the war with Iran began. Since then, prices have surged to over $4 per gallon, marking the highest levels before an election, according to AAA.

Diesel prices have also reached record highs, climbing from $3.63 at the start of Trump's term and $3.75 before the war to over $6 recently. Diesel powers essential transportation and agricultural equipment, so its price increases typically affect broader consumer costs.