US inflation rises more than expected ahead of midterm elections
US inflation rose to 3.7% in September, exceeding expectations due to higher gasoline prices linked to Middle East energy supply disruptions. This data release arrives just before the upcoming midterm elections, where cost-of-living issues are a central theme.
Why it matters
Economic indicators like inflation significantly influence voter sentiment and political outcomes in the US midterm elections.
Image source, Getty Images By Rachel Clun Business reporter Published 14 October 2026, 13:47 BST Updated 1 minute ago US inflation rose by more than expected in the year to September, according to official figures, in the final data release before the midterm elections next month.
The pace of price rises increased to 3.7%, up from 3.4% in the 12 months to August.
Inflation was above forecasts, driven by higher gasoline prices which have spiked following disruption to Middle East energy supplies due to the US-Israel conflict with Iran.
The elections are being fought over cost of living pressures across the US.
Inflation is the rate at which the price of products or services increase over time.
For example, if a bottle of milk costs $1 but rises to $1.10 a year later, then annual inflation for bottled milk is 10%.
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