In a tense moment captured live on air, President Donald Trump’s top economic advisor found himself on the defensive during an interview on Fox News, where he faced relentless questioning about the troubling state of the U.S. economy just weeks before the midterm elections.

National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett appeared on the network amid mounting concerns about rising inflation and its impact on American households. Longtime Fox financial analyst Stuart Varney pressed Hassett for answers, suggesting that the latest economic indicators painted a grim picture.

“The market doesn’t like this,” Varney stated, emphasizing that interest rates were climbing at an alarming rate. “It’s the last report heading into the midterms, and it’s not real great on inflation, is it?” His probing highlighted the mounting pressure on the administration as economic conditions deteriorated.

According to recent data from the Consumer Price Index, inflation surged 3.7 percent in September compared to the previous year, with rising gas prices contributing 34 percent to that spike. This jump in prices coupled with increased interest rates is feeding into voters’ frustrations as they prepare to head to the polls.

Hassett, while acknowledging the disappointing numbers, attempted to deflect responsibility by blaming external factors. He pointed to geopolitical tensions, including attacks on Saudi pipelines by Houthi rebels and other Iranian proxies, as contributing to the uptick in energy prices.

“You’re absolutely right,” Hassett asserted, but quickly pivoted to stress that much of the energy price shock had since eased. Nevertheless, he admitted, “the bottom line is, you’re correct that this was a disappointing number.”

Despite the evidence piling up against the administration’s economic performance, Hassett attempted to highlight some positive aspects. He argued that income growth could alleviate concerns about rising mortgage rates, which could remain above 7 percent.

However, Varney, undeterred, pressed Hassett further. “Does the tick up keep going?” he questioned, implying that the current economic woes would continue to weigh heavily on American homeowners.

A recent New York Times report noted a range of disheartening trends — job growth is slowing, mortgage rates are increasing, and unemployment has been ticking upwards. This was underscored by how consumers feel about their economic prospects, which have been affected by rising prices across several essential sectors.

Fuel oil prices skyrocketed by an astonishing 74.2 percent, with other essentials like electricity and hospital services also seeing significant hikes. As Americans grapple with these rising costs, their concerns over financial stability have only intensified.

As the midterm elections approach, economic issues are at the forefront of voters’ minds. Hassett’s attempts to paint a rosy economic picture were met with skepticism, particularly as polls suggested that many Americans viewed the economy as being in dire straits.

Varney pointedly asked Hassett why voters held such a negative view of the economy, to which Hassett expressed confusion. “You know, it’s a puzzle that we’re noodling about every day ourselves,” he admitted, showcasing the administration’s struggle to frame a coherent narrative amid rising discontent.

The challenges of tackling inflation, high interest rates, and supply chain disruptions have raised significant questions about the administration’s economic strategy. As voters prepare to cast their ballots, their economic concerns may very well dictate their decisions at the polls.

The situation remains fluid and the stakes are high, with expert commentary suggesting that the economic landscape could heavily influence the outcome of the upcoming elections.

As Hassett’s interview underlined, the administration’s attempts to reassure the public about the economy are being met with considerable doubt. With critical economic indicators pointing in a troubling direction, the Trump administration will have to address these challenges head-on to regain public trust.

With only days left until voters weigh in on the midterm elections, the economic narrative surrounding inflation and affordability will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the electoral landscape.

As President Trump continues to navigate these turbulent economic waters, the coming weeks will reveal whether he can turn the tide in favor of his administration and the Republican Party.