Even as inflation eases slightly, North Carolina families still feel squeezed from all sides

By: Clayton Henkel

Outlets: North Carolina Newsline

Published: August 13, 2026

Words: 657

Last Updated: 5 days, 10 hours ago

Body Text Preview

Inflation cooled slightly in July thanks in part to a dip in gas prices, but many consumers aren’t feeling any relief.

David McLennan, a veteran political scientist at Meredith College, told NC Newsline that there’s a disconnect between the data and the economic pain consumers are facing.

“Economic perceptions are getting to the point where they’re locked in,” said McLennan. “Even if we get a few months of declining consumer price index or some other …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.

About

FAQ

Email Us