Old North News

The most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates that escalating gas prices have played a significant role in the inflation surge witnessed in February. A poll conducted by the League of American Workers reveals that 61 percent of those surveyed expressed dissatisfaction with the economic state under President Joe Biden's administration.

According to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) report issued by BLS, there was a 3.2 percent rise in overall CPI from February 2023 to February 2024. The report notes that the increase in both gasoline and shelter indices "contributed over sixty percent of the monthly increase in the index for all items."

The BLS states that after a four-month decline, there was a 3.8 percent rise in the gasoline index from January to February 2024.

In its regional analysis, BLS points out that in the South Atlantic division of the South region, which includes North Carolina, the overall CPI saw an increase of 3.9 percent from February 2023 to February 2024 and one percent over the month ending February 2024. This rate surpasses national trends. In this same region, between January and February 2024, there was a 5.5 percent rise in the gasoline index, exceeding the national average for this period.

A poll conducted by League of American Workers (LAW) in February 2024 involving likely North Carolina voters found that a majority — precisely, 61 percent — disapproved of President Joe Biden's economic management. Additionally, respondents indicated by a margin of 53 to 32 percent that they felt more financially secure during President Donald Trump's tenure.

The survey was carried out by North Star Opinion Research on behalf of LAW, an organization committed to studying public policies impacting American workers.