Though inflation has slowed from its height after the pandemic, the latest federal data shows it continues to rise at an elevated pace. Concern over figures like that are helping Republicans stand their ground in demanding spending cuts. Federal debt spending helps fuel the money-printing that increases the money supply and along with it, inflation. Other Republicans shared frustration with the debt increase as well. “With Republicans like these, who needs Democrats?” Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, wrote on Twitter.