Economist Podcasts Variety in the price of life: inflation and the midterms
Oct 19, 2022
Explore the struggles of a food truck couple in Rhode Island grappling with inflation as they reflect local culture in their empanadas. Discover how rising prices shape voter concerns in the tightly contested midterm elections. Dive into Denmark's controversial asylum policies that aim for drastic reductions by 2030, revealing societal divides. Plus, honor the musical legacy of jazz legend Keith Jarrett amid these pressing issues.
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Food Truck Struggles
- Raymond and Natalie Rodriguez operate a food truck called Spanglish in Rhode Island, selling empanadas at a farmer's market.
- Rising food and fuel costs, especially cooking oil, have impacted their profits and forced them to raise prices, leading to customer pushback.
Inflation and Midterms
- US inflation is at its highest since the early Reagan era, impacting voters' decisions in the upcoming midterm elections.
- Rhode Island's 2nd district, typically a Democratic stronghold, is facing a surprisingly tight race due to economic concerns.
Inflation Causes
- While COVID relief bills contributed to inflation, including the one signed by Donald Trump, Republicans are trying to solely blame Democrats.
- Economists estimate fiscal policy contributes about three percentage points to the current 8% inflation.