President Donald Trump has dismissed rising fuel and utility costs as "fake inflation," but many have expressed concern over the increasing costs. Customers have reported a significant increase in fuel costs following the U.S. conflict with Iran and increased water and electricity prices. However, some locals have expressed less concern about these increases, with one stating that his power bill recently decreased. Another viewer said senior citizens are being particularly affected by inflation, and that many of these residents don't qualify for financial assistance. Researchers from the John Chambers College of Business and Economics have predicted continued economic growth in more successful areas of West Virginia, but warned that unemployment and population losses are expected to continue.