President Donald Trump reacted publicly after new government data showed the U.S. economy grew faster than expected in the third quarter of the year. Posting on Truth Social, Trump claimed that his tariffs were the main reason for the strong numbers, saying the economy is improving, inflation is not a problem, and national security is strong. He also urged people to pray for the Supreme Court of the United States, which is currently reviewing a major case tied to his tariff policy.
According to the Commerce Department, the economy grew at an annual rate of 4.3 percent between July and September. This was higher than economists predicted and stronger than growth in the previous quarter. It marked the best performance since late 2023. The growth was driven mainly by increased consumer spending, higher government spending, and stronger exports. At the same time, business investment slowed, and imports declined slightly.
The timing of the data is important for Trump because the Supreme Court is considering a case that challenges his authority to impose tariffs without approval from Congress. The justices heard arguments in November, and their decision could determine whether one of Trump’s main economic strategies can continue. A ruling against him could weaken a central part of his policy agenda.
Supporters of the president argue that the latest economic numbers prove the tariffs are working by boosting domestic production and overall growth. Critics disagree, saying the tariffs have raised prices for consumers and contributed to ongoing cost-of-living pressures. Some economists also warn that the strong growth may not last, pointing to signs of slowing momentum later in the year due to a long government shutdown and growing financial strain on households.
Surveys show consumer confidence has dropped close to its lowest level since the U.S. expanded tariffs earlier this year. Separate research found that nearly half of Americans plan to spend less on Christmas gifts, largely because higher prices are stretching household budgets. Economists say this reflects a divided economy, where wealthier households can cope with rising costs, while lower-income families struggle.
Trump dismissed criticism and celebrated the data online, saying most economists got it wrong while he got it right. He described the current moment as a new “economic golden age” and insisted that growth will continue. The Supreme Court is expected to issue its ruling in the coming months, a decision that could reshape trade policy and limit or expand presidential power over tariffs.
