Speaking at a Mack Trucks plant in eastern Pennsylvania, former President Donald Trump informed a crowd of blue-collar workers that major pharmaceutical companies have agreed to lower prices for weight-loss medications, a move he believes will benefit millions of Americans. Trump stated that these price reductions, scheduled to take effect next week, are the "biggest price reductions in the history of our country for anything having to do with drugs, prescription medicine."
Medicare's 68 million senior-citizen enrollees will become eligible on July 1 for new discounts on GLP-1 drugs used for weight loss, including medications like Wegovy, Foundayo, and Zepbound. Under the new policy, the copay for these drugs is expected to be $50. Previously, Medicare Part D, which covers prescriptions, did not cover GLP-1 drugs for weight loss unless used to treat diabetes or heart disease, requiring patients to pay out-of-pocket. Trump's "most favored nations" initiative, which utilized the threat of tariffs to align U.S. prices with those in other major countries, has also previously lowered costs for uninsured individuals. The TrumpRx discount site, launched in February, reportedly reduced the average monthly cost of Wegovy from $1,349 to $149 and Ozempic from $1,028 to $350.
Trump presented these economic measures as a key factor for the upcoming midterm elections, urging his supporters to vote for Republican candidates. He also discussed other economic talking points, including potential decreases in oil and gas prices. "Oil is going to come charging down and with oil comes everything else," Trump said, attributing this to a peace agreement he initiated with Iran to end conflict in the Strait of Hormuz. He added that "19 million barrels of oil flowed out of the Strait of Hormuz" the previous day, describing it as an "oil gush."
While acknowledging that key details of the Iran agreement, such as nuclear material destruction, are still under negotiation, Trump stated, "We’re trying to work out a deal that’s fair, and Iran will never have a nuclear weapon." He also referenced military operations in Venezuela, claiming they have been "paid" for through oil proceeds.
During his speech, Trump also highlighted tax reforms enacted last year, specifically the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act." He claimed the legislation provided significant tax breaks for tips, overtime, and domestic car loan interest, estimating the savings at "more than $10,000 a year per household" in Pennsylvania. He invited Sergeant Sam Elias of the Bethlehem Police Department on stage to discuss how the exemption of overtime pay from taxes has benefited him and his family.
Trump characterized his Democratic opponents as "communists," pointing to socialist candidates in New York City with mayoral endorsements. He also brought UFC fighter Bo Nickal on stage, referencing a recent event held at the White House. Trump concluded his remarks by dancing to "Y.M.C.A."