GOP strategists caution Trump that economic messaging may miss voters' cost concerns

Republican advisers are urging President Donald Trump to temper his upbeat economic narrative ahead of the November midterms, warning that voters are increasingly concerned about affordability. While national data show job gains and steady unemployment, many Americans cite rising grocery, fuel and housing costs as evidence the economy feels weak. Polls and consumer-confidence surveys, including the Conference Board and University of Michigan indexes, have slipped to their lowest levels in years, reflecting broad unease.

GOP figures such as Rep. Rob Wittman and Rep. Derrick Van Orden argue that campaign messages should focus on tangible expenses rather than macro statistics. Senate leaders, including Majority Leader John Thune, acknowledge "headwinds" and are reviewing legislation aimed at curbing electricity price spikes. The party is shifting toward a voter-centric economic pitch in the final weeks before Election Day.