Prices are rising, growth is slowing and, for some Americans, unemployment is increasing. The national debt is growing.

I feel President Donald Trump applies a very simple and deeply dishonest approach to telling the story of America's economy: He exaggerates and everything his opponents do is designed to destroy it, and only he can fix it.

If economic data doesn't support his claims, he plays the victim of a rigged system.

Trump’s campaign promises sounded too good to be true. He committed to end inflation, cut energy costs in half, make health care affordable and Americans would see drastic price reductions in consumer goods and groceries.

Voters anticipating lower prices were willing to overlook unpresidential behavior believing these campaign promises.

People having an understanding of economics recognized these campaign promises as hyperbole and beyond the control of a president regardless of party affiliation. Trump's policies are making life more expensive while simultaneously cutting funding for programs many voters are dependent upon and with no plan as to how those programs are to remain operational.

Our elected representatives have a duty to support bills that are in the best interest of their constituents, first and foremost, even if it means having the courage to cross party lines.

So please, vote in 2026 for Congressional representation committed to restoring government services, taxing the wealthy as the middle class are taxed and stopping our national deficit from ballooning another $5 trillion.

Bill Lauff,

Connoquenessing Township