Inflation ran hotter than expected last month, underscoring affordability challenges

October consumer prices rose 0.4% from September, above forecasts though slower than September’s 0.6% increase; core prices rose 0.3%. Annual comparison was unavailable because the previous federal shutdown prevented October 2025 data collection.

Energy costs were spreading to air fares, transit and delivery. The AP Voter Poll found about two-thirds of voters blamed Trump administration policies for higher prices and roughly nine-in-ten said cost of living was a major or crucial voting factor.