The Globe and Mail reports in its Wednesday, July 15, edition that United States inflation eased last month as gas, clothing and used car prices dropped, offering relief to consumers. An Associated Press dispatch to The Globe reports that prices dropped 0.4 per cent from May to June, the largest monthly drop in four years. On a yearly basis, inflation declined to 3.5 per cent, down from a year-over-year gain of 4.2 per cent in May and lower than many economists expected. Oil prices rose for a second day as the U.S. renewed attacks on Iran and President Donald Trump announced a new blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. Many Americans are dissatisfied with the economy after years of high inflation, posing risks for Mr. Trump and Republicans in the upcoming midterm elections. Still, excluding the food and energy categories, core prices were unchanged in June, a positive sign that underlying inflation is cooling. On a yearly basis, core prices rose just 2.6 per cent, down from 2.9 per cent the previous month. Core inflation remains above the Federal Reserve's target of 2 per cent. Economists say the gas price spike from the Iran war has raised airfares and some costs, but hasn't caused widespread inflation.