White House economic advisers remain upbeat about President Trump's agenda despite mounting economic challenges. National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett insisted on CNBC that recent turbulence, including a loss of 92,000 jobs in February and rising gas prices, would prove temporary.

Hassett attributed the unexpected job losses to factors beyond the administration's control, including poor weather, West Coast strikes, and federal data methodology changes. The unemployment rate ticked up to 4.4 percent, raising concerns as midterm elections approach. The administration continues to project confidence about economic growth, particularly as artificial intelligence boosts productivity in certain sectors.

Gas prices have surged to $3.32 per gallon amid the Iran conflict, up from $2.98 the previous week. While Trump and his team downplay the increase as a temporary blip, Hassett suggested the White House has discussed potential measures to lower oil prices but ruled out tapping the strategic reserve. The administration maintains that economic fundamentals remain strong despite inflation concerns and the disconnect between robust growth and limited employment gains.