美媒：通胀数据趋缓 美国“可负担性危机”为何仍刺痛民众？

Core Viewpoint - The "affordability crisis" in the U.S. has escalated into a major concern for the White House, highlighting a systemic challenge where rising living costs outpace household income, despite official inflation data showing some relief [1]. Inflation Data and Public Sentiment - The U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 2.7% year-on-year and 0.3% month-on-month in December 2025, with core CPI increasing by 2.6% year-on-year [2]. - Despite a slight easing in macro inflation, the daily financial burdens on American households remain significant, as public sensitivity to price levels is much higher than to changes in inflation rates [2][3]. Political Implications - The affordability crisis is becoming a central issue for the 2026 midterm elections, with voters prioritizing living costs, high taxes, and economic concerns in key states [4]. - The Trump administration's use of tariffs may exacerbate the affordability crisis, as proposed tariffs could increase prices on various imported goods, potentially leading to political backlash [6]. Policy Contradictions - The administration's mixed signals regarding tariffs—threatening new tariffs while delaying others—indicate an awareness of the negative impact of tariff policies on consumer prices [6]. - Economic experts warn that inflation may rebound in early 2026 as companies adjust pricing strategies, potentially passing on previously absorbed cost pressures to consumers [6]. Disconnect Between Macro Indicators and Household Reality - There is a systemic disconnect between macroeconomic indicators and the financial realities faced by households, as policymakers often overlook the lasting impacts of economic shocks on family budgets [7][9]. - Surveys indicate that many American families do not expect prices to return to pre-crisis levels, with a significant portion of respondents acknowledging that tariffs have raised prices and opting for cheaper alternatives [10].