On November 18, 2025, President Donald Trump spoke at the McDonald's Impact Summit in Washington, D.C., where he claimed that the U.S. is in a period of 'unprecedented prosperity' and that his administration has successfully addressed economic challenges inherited from previous administrations. He emphasized that prices are decreasing and attributed the current economic situation to his leadership, stating, "The Biden administration started the affordability crisis, and my administration is ending it."

Trump asserted that inflation rates, which peaked at 9.1% in 2023 under President Joe Biden, have since eased to 3% by the time of his second inauguration. However, he acknowledged that many Americans remain dissatisfied with rising prices, despite his claims of improvement. Recent data indicates that the average price of a fast-food meal has increased to $14.11, contradicting Trump's assertions about decreasing costs.

In response to affordability concerns, the Trump administration has eased tariffs on imports of essential groceries, including beef and coffee, and proposed $2,000 tariff dividend checks for Americans, which he suggested could be distributed by mid-next year. Trump highlighted the role of McDonald's employees in serving various segments of the population, including lower-income individuals, and noted a decline in breakfast sales at the chain, indicating economic pressures affecting consumer behavior.

Despite Trump's optimistic portrayal, polling data shows a decline in approval ratings among his core supporters, particularly working-class Americans, who are increasingly skeptical of his economic management. The concept of a K-shaped economy, where high-income and low-income Americans experience diverging economic fortunes, has gained attention, with reports indicating that the top 10% of earners accounted for nearly half of second-quarter spending.

Economists warn that public discontent regarding affordability may persist, regardless of improvements in economic indicators. Consumer sentiment is closely linked to economic conditions, and negative perceptions could hinder spending among lower-income Americans. This situation reflects broader concerns about economic equity and the impact of policy decisions on vulnerable populations.

Overall, Trump's remarks at the summit highlight a disconnect between his administration's narrative of economic success and the realities faced by many Americans, particularly those struggling with rising costs and economic uncertainty.