Letters from an American October 30, 2025
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Oct 31, 2025 The podcast dives into the contentious political climate, highlighting Americans’ blame on Trump for the government shutdown. Rising inflation, including skyrocketing Halloween candy prices, sparks economic concerns. Trump’s speech in Japan raises eyebrows with claims about the Insurrection Act. The Pentagon's move to train National Guard for riot control suggests a shift towards domestic militarization. Meanwhile, troubling reports about DHS videos and increasing deportations reveal troubling trends in current policies.
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Public Blame And Falling Approval
- Public opinion blames Trump and congressional Republicans more than Democrats for the shutdown and related crises.
- Approval for Trump is trending downward with a negative 14-point split in 50+ polling averages.
Rising Inflation And Stagflation Risks
- Core inflation has climbed to 3% and has risen each month since April, eroding Trump's campaign promise.
- Jerome Powell warned of stagflation-like risks with upside inflation and downside employment pressures.
Trump's Japan Speech On Federalizing Troops
- In a rambling speech in Japan, Trump claimed he could federalize the National Guard and send the military to cities, citing the Insurrection Act.
- Richardson notes neither insurrection nor rebellion exists, so invoking the Act would be unlawful.