Donald Trump has urged the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates later this month, arguing that high rates place the United States at a "very unfair disadvantage." His comments come as recent employment data showed stronger-than-expected job creation, which has increased the likelihood that the Fed may raise rates in September. Inflation remains above the Fed's 2% annual target, and Americans are still feeling the impact of rising prices, despite recent improvements in the labor market. In August, the U.S. economy added 162,000 jobs—nearly three times the 56,000 that analysts had predicted. This surge was largely driven by hiring in the hospitality and education sectors, as well as in local government jobs ahead of the new school year. Trump took to social media to insist that the U.S. should have the "LOWEST RATE of any country in the World" and urged the Federal Reserve to act in the nation's interest. "The Fed Board, with its great new leader, must get smart—BE PATRIOTS for a change," he wrote. The Federal Reserve has been closely monitoring inflation, which measures the rate at which prices for goods and services rise. As of the latest data, inflation has been 3.4% over the past year, still above the Fed's 2% target. Last week, Kevin Warsh, chairman of the U.S. central bank, suggested that rates could be raised if inflation does not show clear signs of slowing. The next decision on interest rates is expected on 15–16 September, following a period of unchanged rates in July, which were set between 3.5% and 3.75%. Despite the rising cost of living, wages have also been increasing. In August, the average hourly earnings for all employees rose to $37.75, a 3.1% increase. Economists have noted that the strong labor market data makes it more likely that the Fed will raise rates in September, even if inflation only slightly exceeds the 2% target. However, Trump criticized the stock market's decline in response to the anticipated rate hike, calling the reaction "crazy" and arguing that the market should rise due to the improved economy.