October 14, 2026

U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison Statement on Latest Inflation Report

New CPI report released today shows inflation worsened in September as energy prices soar

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Kelly Morrison released the following statement on the latest Consumer Price Index Summary (CPI) for September 2026:

“President Trump is driving up costs with his tariffs and war in Iran – and the Republican majority in Congress is doing nothing to stop it. This is a betrayal of the American people. While prioritizing giving massive tax breaks to billionaires, the Republican majority is using their total control of government to force Minnesotans to pay more for gas, groceries, childcare, healthcare, rent, and everything in between.

“As we head into the cold winter months in Minnesota, soaring energy prices mean Minnesotans will have to pay more to heat their homes. As we plan for the holidays, Minnesotans will be forced to pay more for gifts and travel. Toy prices rose by the largest monthly increase on record, and gas and airline prices are skyrocketing. 

“And this all comes as Minnesotans’ health insurance premiums are set to increase by double digits next year because the Republican majority made the single largest cut to healthcare in our nation’s history to pay for tax cuts for billionaires.

“We are in a cost of living crisis, and this Administration’s reckless policies are making it worse. The American people deserve a Congress who will fight to lower costs, stop Trump’s tariffs, and end his costly war in Iran that continues to cost the American people billions of dollars.”

The latest CPI report showed that:

  • Inflation accelerated in September.

  • Overall prices are increasing, and rose by the largest monthly increase in five months.

  • The cost of gas is up 34.2% over last year.

  • The cost of fuel oil is up by 74.2% over last year.

  • Toy prices saw their largest monthly increase on record.

  • Worker wages are not keeping up with inflation. Americans have not seen any real wage growth since President Trump returned to the White House two years ago.

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