In a recent interview on ABC News’ This Week, California Senator Adam Schiff acknowledged that one of the Democratic Party’s biggest challenges during the 2024 election was its failure to fully connect with voters on a pressing everyday issue: the rising cost of living.

Speaking candidly with host Jonathan Karl, Schiff reflected on moments when the party could have sharpened its message around economic concerns that continue to affect working families across the nation. The interview followed a recent high-profile moment in Congress, when former President Donald Trump’s address was interrupted—an event that drew attention and criticism across the political spectrum.

Rather than capitalize on a key opportunity to highlight policies addressing affordability, Schiff said, the party’s focus became diverted. “We should have kept the focus on the cost of living,” he said plainly.

While inflation has eased since its 2022 peak, many households continue to feel the effects of higher prices on essential needs such as housing, groceries, childcare, and healthcare. Schiff emphasized that even though national data may show improvement, the day-to-day experience for many Americans still involves financial strain.

He also noted that the issue goes deeper than campaign messaging—it reflects a broader need for real policy solutions. “People want to know how we’re going to make their lives easier,” he said. “That’s the conversation we need to have—not just during campaign season, but every day we serve in office.”