Inflation ran hotter than expected last month, underscoring affordability challenges

A U.S. flag hangs over shoppers at a hardware store in the Dallas suburb of Richardson, Texas, Friday, Oct. 23, 2026. (AP Photo/LM Otero) (AP Photo/LM Otero) WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. inflation was higher than expected last month in a sign that the rising prices that powered sweeping Democratic victories in last week’s midterm elections will continue to pose challenges for the White House and the…