Gas prices, open markets key to Americans' confidence in economy: Lutnick

(NewsNation) — United States Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick told NewsNation's Batya Ungar-Sargon that falling gas prices and open markets can ultimately lead to Americans feeling better about the state of the economy.

Referring to recent polling that shows Americans' pessimism about the economy is at record highs, Ungar-Sargon asked Sec. Lutnick how President Trump planned on regaining voters' confidence in the economy before the 2026 midterm elections — a crucial election that will determine if Trump will maintain his hold on the U.S. Congress for the remainder of his term.

"You've seen gas finally dropping lower and lower and lower so that's going to matter," Lutnick said. "Open markets so that our farmers can be more successful and they can grow and have confidence that they can sell their goods around the world will drive down our costs here."

Watch Lutnick's full interview with Ungar-Sargon during which he also discusses his view of New York City mayoral frontrunner Zohran Mamdani and the evolving relationship between President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk on "Batya!" on NewsNation at 4 p.m. ET.

Not sure how to find NewsNation on your TV? Use our Channel finder.