Inflation climbs in September as gas prices stay high

U.S. inflation increased in September, with the Consumer Price Index rising to an annual rate of 3.7% from 3.4% the previous month. This surge followed three months of stagnation and was primarily driven by jumping energy costs. High prices for gasoline and diesel continued to squeeze consumers and weigh on shoppers. The latest inflation report highlights a monthlong increase in costs for essentials, impacting the economy ahead of the midterms as energy expenses climbed significantly.