Fact-Checking Trump’s Cabinet Meeting: Unpacking the Long List of Misstatements | CNN Politics

As usual, President Donald Trump made several false statements during his Cabinet meeting on Tuesday. Many of his assertions have been disproven before.

He reiterated claims about grocery prices, the economy, foreign relations, and even the 2020 election, all of which have faced scrutiny.

Inflation and the Economy

Grocery Prices: Trump claimed that grocery prices have dropped. However, recent Consumer Price Index data shows they have risen by about 2.7% compared to September 2024.

Prescription Drug Prices: Trump stated that an executive order he issued would significantly reduce drug prices. However, suggesting a reduction of 200% or more is mathematically impossible—prices can’t drop below zero.

Current Inflation: Trump said, “we’ve stopped inflation in its tracks.” That’s misleading, as inflation is still at around 3.0%. When he returned to office, it was the same.

Investment in the U.S.: He repeated that commitments for investments total over $18 trillion, which is not accurate. The actual figure is closer to $9.6 trillion, and it’s mainly based on vague commitments, not solid investments.

Gas Prices: Trump noted gas prices were around $2.50 a gallon. While some states reported prices below that, the national average was nearly $3.00 per gallon.

Current Affairs

Aid to Ukraine: Trump claimed that Biden gave $350 billion to Ukraine. In reality, as of mid-2025, this figure was closer to $94 billion.

Military Actions: Trump spoke about military strikes on drug boats, claiming each strike saves 25,000 lives. Public health experts call that figure absurd, as total overdose deaths in the U.S. were around 82,000 in 2024.

China and Energy: Trump asserted that China lacks gasoline, which is inaccurate. In 2024, China produced over 4 million barrels a day, far less than the U.S. production of over 13 million barrels.

Crime and Legislation

Crime in Washington, D.C.: Trump claimed D.C. has “no murders,” which contradicts ongoing incidents of violent crime.

Social Security: He stated that a significant domestic policy bill he signed includes “no tax on Social Security.” However, many older recipients will still pay taxes on their benefits.

Insights on Public Reaction

Public sentiment about Trump’s claims often varies. On social media, reactions range from skepticism to strong support, reflecting a divided national discourse. Recent polls show that a significant portion of voters are concerned about misinformation in politics, leading to broader discussions about the importance of fact-checking.

In conclusion, while Trump’s remarks contain a mix of truths and inaccuracies, the ongoing debate highlights the critical need for accuracy in public discourse, especially from leaders. Whether addressing inflation, energy, or social issues, keeping the facts clear is vital for informed public decisions.

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