Trump 'of course' cares about Americans' financial pain, Vance says

Vice President JD Vance sought to clarify Donald Trump’s recent comments on May 13, addressing reports that the president had downplayed Americans’ financial hardships as a motivator in Iran war negotiations. During a White House event announcing an anti-fraud initiative, Vance said Trump’s earlier statement—‘I don’t think about Americans’ financial situation’—was misrepresented. He emphasized that the administration, including Trump, remains focused on both preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and addressing economic concerns like inflation. Trump’s remarks on May 12 came before his departure for a multi-day trip to China, where he told reporters he prioritizes stopping Iran’s nuclear ambitions over financial pressures. The consumer price index rose 3.8% in April, the highest inflation increase in three years, driven by escalating oil prices linked to the Iran war. A CNN poll released the same day showed 70% of Americans disapprove of Trump’s economic handling, the highest disapproval rating of his presidency. Vance acknowledged the inflation spike but argued it was lower than under former President Joe Biden, stating the administration is ‘hyperaware’ of economic challenges. Trump has proposed suspending the 18.4% federal gas tax to ease pump prices, though passing such legislation faces bipartisan hurdles. He also predicted oil prices would drop sharply once the Iran conflict ends. The political fallout from rising gas prices threatens Republicans ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, with Trump framing the issue as a temporary concern tied to the war. Democrats quickly criticized his initial remarks, seizing on the perception that his administration is out of touch with economic struggles. Vance’s intervention aimed to reframe the narrative, stressing the administration’s dual focus on national security and economic relief.