President Donald Trump has a unique approach to dealing with the media and public criticism, especially when it comes to sensitive topics like rising egg prices. Along with controlling which journalists can attend his daily media sessions and deciding who gets to ask questions—often dismissing or insulting those who pose tough questions—Trump has another strategy: telling frustrated Americans to “shut up.”
On Sunday, Trump shared a column by Charlie Kirk, a prominent supporter of the MAGA movement, on his Truth Social platform. The column urged Americans to stop complaining about the soaring cost of eggs, which have reached record highs across the country. Egg prices have surged by 53%, with some areas seeing prices as high as $10 per dozen. In New York, bodegas are even selling single eggs due to the steep costs.
This shift in tone is notable because, during the 2024 campaign, Trump and his supporters heavily criticized President Joe Biden for high grocery prices, particularly eggs. Trump had promised voters that he would lower grocery prices “on Day One” of his administration. However, a month into his presidency, he has yet to introduce any economic policies to address inflation or the rising cost of living. Instead, his proposed tariffs and threats of additional tariffs have worsened the situation, according to some of his former advisers.
While much of the price increase is attributed to bird flu outbreaks, which forced the culling of millions of chickens, Trump has not presented a plan to tackle this issue. Instead, he seems to be growing impatient with the ongoing criticism about egg prices, even as Democrats continue to highlight the problem. Some Democrats, like Bernie Sanders, have acknowledged the need to refine their messaging on economic issues, but others are doubling down on the topic.
Democratic activist Tristin Snell pointed out the irony of Trump’s stance on social media, posting:
*“Donald Trump on eggs and other high-priced groceries:
August 2024: ‘When I win, I will immediately bring prices down on Day One.’
March 2025: ‘Shut up about egg prices.’”*
The group Republicans Against Trump also criticized the former president, posting: *“Donald Trump thinks Americans should ‘shut up’ about the outrageously high price of eggs.”*
The Associated Press reported that some Democrats see the issue of egg prices as a key to rebuilding their party’s appeal. Rather than focusing on Trump’s dismantling of federal institutions or his alliance with billionaire Elon Musk, they are emphasizing everyday concerns like grocery prices. Eggs, in particular, have become a symbol of the broader struggle with inflation.
According to federal data, U.S. egg prices hit a record average of $4.95 per dozen in January 2025, surpassing the previous record set in January 2023. In some regions, prices are even higher. For example, a Safeway supermarket in San Francisco was selling a dozen eggs for $10.99 recently. The U.S. Department of Agriculture predicts that egg prices will rise by 41% this year compared to last year’s average of $3.17 per dozen. This has led some restaurants, like Denny’s and Waffle House, to add temporary surcharges for egg-based dishes.
Public opinion reflects widespread frustration with the cost of living. A Washington Post/Ipsos poll found that nearly 90% of Americans are unhappy with food prices, with about half describing the situation as “poor.” Similarly, a CNN/SSRS poll conducted in mid-February revealed that around 60% of Americans believe Trump has “not gone far enough” in addressing the rising costs of everyday goods.
Trump’s dismissive response to concerns about egg prices highlights a growing disconnect between his administration and the everyday struggles of Americans. While he once campaigned on promises to lower prices and improve the economy, his current approach—telling people to “shut up” about their frustrations—suggests a lack of urgency or empathy for those feeling the pinch of inflation. As Democrats continue to hammer this issue, it remains to be seen how Trump will address the growing discontent among voters.
