Rather than capitalize on a key opportunity to highlight policies addressing affordability, Schiff said, the party’s focus became diverted. “We should have kept the focus on the cost of living,” he said plainly.

While inflation has eased since its 2022 peak, many households continue to feel the effects of higher prices on essential needs such as housing, groceries, childcare, and healthcare. Schiff emphasized that even though national data may show improvement, the day-to-day experience for many Americans still involves financial strain.

He also noted that the issue goes deeper than campaign messaging—it reflects a broader need for real policy solutions. “People want to know how we’re going to make their lives easier,” he said. “That’s the conversation we need to have—not just during campaign season, but every day we serve in office.”