Kevin Hassett Faces Online Criticism After Defending Consumer Confidence Amid Rising Costs

Kevin Hassett, director of the National Economic Council and a top economic adviser to President Donald Trump, faced widespread criticism online after claiming that American consumers remain optimistic despite rising gas prices and growing concerns about the cost of living. During an interview on Fox News, Hassett argued that private-sector credit card data showed Americans continuing to spend heavily not only on gasoline but also on other goods and services. He said this reflected confidence in the U.S. economy and pointed to GDP growth above 4 percent as evidence of strong economic momentum. Hassett also credited recent Republican economic policies, including what he referred to as the “Big Beautiful Bill” and investments in artificial intelligence, for strengthening the economy despite disruptions linked to the Iran conflict and higher fuel prices. His comments quickly sparked backlash from journalists, economists, attorneys, and political commentators on social media platforms including Bluesky and X. Critics argued that increased spending on necessities such as gasoline does not necessarily indicate consumer optimism, but rather reflects inflation and rising prices forcing Americans to spend more. Several commentators accused Hassett of being disconnected from the financial struggles facing many households. Among the reactions, attorney David R. Lurie sarcastically commented that Americans were “optimistically choosing between food and medicine,” while economist Dean Baker accused Trump supporters of routinely misleading the public about economic conditions. Political commentator Chris Mowrey also criticized administration officials, describing them as “shameless creatures with no self respect.” The article highlights the growing divide between the Trump administration’s positive economic messaging and critics who argue that many Americans continue to face financial pressure from inflation and high living costs.