Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt attributed the rising egg prices to a dwindling chicken supply, a consequence she links to the previous administration's policies. During her inaugural press briefing, Leavitt emphasized the urgency of confirming President Trump's nominees, including Brooke Rollins for the Department of Agriculture, to tackle this issue and the broader cost of living crisis. She pointed to the inflationary pressures inherited from the Biden administration as a contributing factor to rising costs across various goods, not just eggs.

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Leavitt's statements follow criticism from Democrats regarding Trump's handling of the economic situation. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries highlighted the rising egg prices as a contradiction to Trump's promises. Rep. Suhas Subramanyam echoed this sentiment, referencing Trump's "concepts of a plan" remark and circulating an image of eggs priced at nearly $9 a dozen.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries criticized President Donald Trump's economic plans. (Getty Images)

Data reveals a significant surge in egg prices, nearly 37% in the past year, reaching an average of $4.15 per dozen in December compared to $2.51 the previous year. Some states, like California, are witnessing prices closer to $9 per dozen due to regulations mandating cage-free hens. This price hike is attributed to increased demand and a widespread avian flu outbreak, which decimated over 20 million egg-laying hens.

Leavitt placed blame on the previous administration's handling of the avian flu outbreak, citing their policies as contributing to the egg shortage. White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly stated that the Trump administration intends to take decisive action to address the avian flu and refocus the USDA's efforts on animal and plant health.

Rep. Eric Swalwell has cast doubt on President Donald Trump's ability to reduce the prices of groceries. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Doubts about Trump's ability to lower grocery prices have been voiced by Democrats, including Rep. Eric Swalwell. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance defended the administration's efforts, citing executive orders aimed at stimulating the economy and reducing energy costs, including a directive to address the cost of living crisis. He expressed confidence that prices would eventually decrease, emphasizing the administration's early actions.

Vice President JD Vance addressed the cost of groceries in an interview. (CBS screenshot)

The economy was a central issue in the 2024 election, with voters expressing greater confidence in Trump's ability to manage economic challenges compared to his opponent.