Leavitt says egg shortage, grocery prices why Senate must ‘move swiftly’ to confirm Trump nominees
President Donald Trump’s White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, is urging members of Congress to swiftly confirm Trump’s nominees in order to address pressing issues such as the U.S. egg shortage and the cost of living crisis. Leavitt emphasized the importance of confirming President Trump’s nominee for the United States Department of Agriculture, Brooke Rollins, who is currently collaborating with Kevin Hassett, the leader of the economic team at the White House, to tackle the egg shortage in the country.
During her first White House press briefing, Leavitt highlighted the significant increase in the cost of living across various sectors, including groceries, gasoline, and other essential items, attributing this rise to the inflationary policies of the previous administration. Democrats have raised concerns about Trump’s economic proposals, particularly in addressing the cost of living crisis, following a 20% increase in consumer prices during former President Joe Biden’s term.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries criticized President Trump’s economic plans, specifically referencing the escalating prices of eggs. He pointed out that the cost of living and the price of eggs were expected to decrease, not rise. Suhas Subramanyam also echoed these sentiments, questioning the effectiveness of Trump’s economic strategies by highlighting a viral photo depicting a dozen eggs priced at nearly $9.
The consumer price index reveals a staggering 37% surge in egg prices over the past year, with a dozen Grade A large eggs costing an average of $4.15 in December. Some states, like California, have seen prices reach nearly $9 per dozen due to regulations mandating cage-free egg production. The recent spike in egg prices can be attributed to high demand and the outbreak of avian flu, which has decimated millions of egg-laying hens.
Leavitt and other White House officials have criticized the Biden administration’s response to the avian flu outbreak, which forced farmers to reduce their livestock populations, exacerbating the egg shortage. They have pledged to take decisive action to address the avian flu crisis and refocus the USDA’s efforts on animal and plant health.
Despite Democratic skepticism, Vice President JD Vance remains optimistic about Trump’s ability to lower grocery prices, citing executive orders aimed at boosting the economy and reducing energy costs. Vance assured that prices would decrease over time, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to addressing the cost of living crisis.
As the economy continues to be a top concern for Americans, Trump’s focus on economic recovery and reducing living expenses has garnered support from voters. A Gallup poll conducted in September 2024 indicated that a majority of voters believed Trump was better equipped to handle the economy compared to his opponent, Kamala Harris.
In conclusion, the Trump administration is actively working to address the egg shortage and cost of living crisis through strategic economic measures and the confirmation of key nominees. With a focus on revitalizing the economy and reducing living expenses, President Trump aims to deliver tangible results for the American people.
