U.S. inflation rises to 3.7% weeks before elections

The U.S. inflation rate stood at 3.7% year on year in September 2026, according to the state-run broadcaster Telesur, increasing pressure on the parties ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.

The 0.6% monthly rise in consumer prices was led by a 9.1% increase in gasoline prices, driven by global energy tensions. In 2026, the U.S. has already recorded a total of 158 days with fuel priced above $4 a gallon.

Consumer price growth in September was not only higher than in August, but also moved further away from the Federal Reserve's (the U.S. central bank) target, which could force it to keep raising interest rates, according to an analysis published by France 24.

This rising cost of living directly affects the purchasing power of American households, hitting lower-income families hardest, as they spend a larger share of their budgets on energy and basic food.