Prices rose 2.7% in December from a year ago, a sign that inflation continues rising but in line with the pace seen in recent months.

CNN was grilled on X Tuesday after users called out a perceived disparity in how the outlet framed inflation under President Donald Trump versus former President Joe Biden.

Soaring metals prices, geopolitical risks and threats to the Federal Reserve’s independence are starting to raise concerns that inflation could accelerate by more than expected in 2026. That matters to investors because it could upset expectations for the Fed to keep a lid on price gains this year.

While annual inflation held steady at a rate of 2.7% in December, consumers still faced higher prices at the grocery store.

The consumer price index increased 2.7% in December as expected, matching the year-over-year increase in November.

While the U.S. CPI inflation report on Tuesday showed a slightly softer-than-expected annual increase in core prices, there's little reason for consumers or policymakers to cheer.

A spike in gasoline prices that has since reversed itself drove a lot of the increase in the report, which had been delayed because of the government shutdown last year.

When it comes to inflation, the official data tell one story. The experience of people often tells another.

Trump claims tariffs drove 'historic' economic gains as U.S. and Taiwan announce massive $500 billion semiconductor deal to rebuild domestic manufacturing.