Inflation still has room to run, experts fear

Published May 18, 2026 5:00am ET | Updated May 18, 2026 7:50am ET



After two painful inflation reports this week, some economists think that inflation could push even higher in the coming months — bad news for consumers and for President Donald Trump.

The war in Iran and subsequent energy price increases have pushed up headline inflation to levels not seen since 2023. And a big question on the minds of economists, consumers, and politicians is whether it has peaked or if it could keep getting worse.

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.