NPR's Scott Horsley reports that U.S. gas prices fell 38 cents to a national average of $3.98 a gallon by November 10, 2026, on cheaper crude, winter-blend fuel, and seasonal demand, but inflation stayed stubborn: consumer prices rose 0.4% in October, with housing costs driving a third of the gain and groceries up sharply. Diesel near $6.15 a gallon, tied to the wars with Iran and in Ukraine, is lifting heating oil and freight costs, and a shutdown gap left the report without a year-over-year reading. Economists warn 3.7% inflation outpaces 3.1% wage gains, which helped drive record midterm turnout.