Senator Kennedy: Cost of Living Still Top Concern for Louisiana Families

Louisiana Senator John Kennedy says the national economy may be improving on paper, but many families are still feeling the pressure when it comes to everyday costs. On Thursday, Kennedy told KEEL News that inflation has cooled significantly from its peak, but that does not mean prices feel affordable for most households.

Kennedy pointed to recent federal data showing inflation hovering around 2.7 percent, down sharply from roughly 9 percent just a few years ago. He said that slowdown matters, but it does not erase the higher prices people are already paying at the grocery store, gas pump, and pharmacy counter.

Inflation Down, Pressure Still On

Kennedy acknowledged that some prices are stabilizing or even dropping slightly, while others continue to rise. He explained that inflation is an average, meaning individual categories like food or energy can still see increases even when the overall number comes down.

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According to Kennedy, the bigger issue is how families experience the economy day to day. He said cost of living is often the top concern for parents lying awake at night, regardless of what national averages show.

What Congress Could Do Next

The senator argued that Congress has tools available right now to address affordability, particularly through the budget reconciliation process. Kennedy said reconciliation allows legislation to pass the Senate with a simple majority, without bipartisan support.

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He outlined several areas he believes could lower costs, including tax code changes aimed at boosting wages, reducing federal regulations on businesses, expanding housing supply, and tackling rising health care costs. Kennedy also criticized the Affordable Care Act, saying insurance premiums continue to rise despite subsidies.

Tariffs and Louisiana Prices

When asked about tariffs and their impact on prices, Kennedy said the results so far appear mixed. He noted that some businesses have absorbed tariff costs instead of passing them directly to consumers, limiting their inflationary effect. He added that the long-term impact is still unclear.

Louisiana's US Senator Looks Ahead to 2026

Kennedy said many provisions from recently passed tax legislation will not take effect until next year, which could bring wage growth and financial relief for workers. While he stopped short of predicting a booming economy, he said he expects conditions to improve as those changes roll out.

Still, Kennedy stressed that voters care less about forecasts and more about whether their paycheck stretches far enough today. He said Congress should focus less on debate and more on action if affordability remains a top concern heading into future elections.