In recent months, consumers across the United States have felt the sting of rising prices at the grocery store and the gas pump. Two of the most notable price hikes have been in the cost of eggs and gasoline.

As the American public grapples with inflation, many are looking for solutions. For some, the answer lies in former President Donald Trump and his promise to “end inflation” on his first day back in office. His supporters within the “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) movement are hoping for a miracle, as they pin their hopes on Trump’s economic policies to reverse the rising costs that have put a strain on everyday Americans.

The Rise in Egg Prices

Eggs, a staple in many households, have seen some of the most dramatic price increases over the past year. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the price of eggs has more than doubled in some regions, largely due to supply chain issues, inflation, and, more recently, the avian flu outbreak that wiped out millions of hens.

The disease has impacted egg production, driving up the cost of the commodity. With fewer eggs available on the market, demand continues to drive up prices.In January 2023, the average cost of a dozen eggs in the U.S. reached an all-time high, with the price hovering around $5 or more in some areas. This sharp increase has prompted concern among American consumers, particularly those on fixed incomes, who are struggling to cope with the growing costs of basic goods.

Gas Prices: A Persistent Burden on Consumers

Gas prices, too, have been on the rise. Though the price of crude oil is a major factor in determining gas prices, the supply and demand factors are key drivers as well. The U.S. had experienced a temporary drop in gas prices during the early part of 2022, following a spike caused by the war in Ukraine, but the costs have since surged again, and Americans are paying more at the pump than in previous years.

While there have been fluctuations in the price of gasoline, the overall trend has been upward. Consumers across the country are paying more for fuel as oil companies deal with reduced production and supply chain issues. A combination of global factors, including OPEC decisions, production cuts, and geopolitical instability, continue to affect gas prices, making them a persistent burden on Americans.

The MAGA Movement’s Hopes for a Trump Miracle

With inflation impacting their daily lives, many Americans who support the MAGA movement are hoping for a quick resolution. Former President Donald Trump, who has positioned himself as a staunch opponent of the current administration’s policies, has promised to tackle inflation head-on should he return to the White House.

Trump’s supporters believe his leadership could deliver what they refer to as a “miracle”—a swift recovery from the economic troubles the country faces. One of the core promises of his potential 2024 campaign is his pledge to “end inflation” immediately, or “on day one,” if he is re-elected. His followers believe that his prior term’s economic success was proof that his policies—particularly those centered on deregulation, tax cuts, and America-first trade policies—helped to boost the economy and stabilize prices.

During his presidency, Trump made a strong case for tax cuts, deregulation, and renegotiating trade deals as the pillars of economic success. Under his administration, the U.S. saw significant tax reforms and a relatively low unemployment rate before the COVID-19 pandemic. Trump’s messaging often focused on energy independence, with his administration boosting oil production in the U.S., which many credit as a factor that kept gas prices lower during his term.

However, critics argue that Trump’s economic policies were not as beneficial as he claims, and that some of the challenges today—such as inflation—stem from the economic disruptions caused by the pandemic and ongoing global factors that are beyond any one president’s control.

The Politics of Inflation and the MAGA Movement’s Narrative

For MAGA supporters, inflation has become a political rallying cry. Trump has repeatedly criticized the Biden administration for its handling of the economy, arguing that the Democratic Party’s policies have exacerbated the cost of living, particularly for the working class.

MAGA supporters view inflation as a key failure of the current administration, which has been blamed for the rising costs of everything from food to housing.In contrast, Trump’s promises of a quick fix are appealing to many who are disillusioned with the current political leadership. His rhetoric is filled with bold claims, often suggesting that his brand of leadership, marked by aggressive business-minded policies, is the solution to the economic problems facing Americans.

While Trump’s supporters are optimistic, the reality of controlling inflation is far more complex. Inflation is driven by numerous factors, including supply chain disruptions, energy prices, fiscal policy, and even geopolitical tensions. Critics argue that the problem cannot be solved simply by returning to the policies of a former president, especially when some of the causes of inflation are global or structural in nature.

Can Trump Deliver on His Promises?

Whether or not Trump can deliver on his promise to end inflation on “day one” remains to be seen. It is important to recognize that the tools a president has to influence inflation are limited, and fixing such a widespread economic issue requires cooperation from various branches of government, including the Federal Reserve, which has its own policies and autonomy when it comes to controlling inflation through interest rate adjustments.

Moreover, while Trump’s past economic successes are notable, his ability to navigate the current economic challenges is uncertain. Many factors, such as the global supply chain and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, could still impact prices no matter who is in office. A president’s ability to influence inflation is not as immediate or miraculous as some political messaging might suggest.

As egg prices continue to climb and gas prices remain high, many Americans are feeling the pinch. In this environment, MAGA supporters are turning to Trump for hope that his leadership can bring about a swift economic recovery. His promises to end inflation and lower prices have resonated with many, but whether these promises can translate into tangible results remains uncertain.

Ultimately, the economic future of the United States will depend on a multitude of factors, from federal policies to global economic conditions. While Trump’s leadership may offer a different approach, the challenges of inflation are not easily overcome by any one individual or party. As inflation remains a major concern, the question will be whether Americans will see relief soon—and whether any president, including Trump, can deliver on the promises of economic recovery.

Last modified: January 29, 2025