A former economic adviser to former President Donald Trump, Stephen Moore, recently appeared on "The Takeout," a popular online news and commentary platform, to discuss the current state of the U.S. economy. Moore noted that mortgage rates have reached a new high for the year 2026 and that gas prices have climbed above $4 per gallon, both of which are significant factors for American consumers. Despite these challenges, Moore gave the economy an overall grade of "B," suggesting that while there are notable issues, the economy is still performing reasonably well. Moore emphasized that rising mortgage rates can impact homebuyers and the broader housing market, potentially slowing down economic growth. However, he argued that the U.S. economy has shown resilience in the face of these pressures. He also pointed out that while gas prices have increased, they are not at the extreme levels seen during previous economic downturns, which he believes helps maintain consumer confidence. In his assessment, Moore acknowledged that inflation and rising living costs remain concerns for many Americans. However, he highlighted that the labor market has remained strong, with low unemployment rates and steady job creation. Moore suggested that these factors contribute to the economy's ability to withstand some of the current pressures. Moore's "B" grade reflects a balanced view that recognizes the challenges while also acknowledging the economy's strengths. His comments come at a time when many Americans are closely watching economic indicators, as they affect everything from daily expenses to long-term financial planning.