Washington Today Weekend Edition: The US Economy and the "Affordability" Crisis, Mood of the nation this Thanksgiving, and the FCC in the Trump Administration
Nov 27, 2025
Heather Long, chief economist for Navy Federal Credit Union, shares insights on the U.S. economy and the ongoing affordability crisis, highlighting the divide between the top 20% and the bottom 80%. Frank Luntz, pollster and strategist, reveals the national mood this Thanksgiving and how it may affect upcoming elections. Ted Johnson, political editor for Deadline, delves into FCC actions under the Trump administration, discussing media regulation and the implications of the agency's oversight on broadcasters.
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Two-Story Economy And The $170K Divide
- The U.S. economy is 'two-story': top 20% thrive while bottom 80% merely tread water amid rising costs.
- Heather Long identifies $170,000 household income as the dividing line driving a K-shaped recovery.
Frozen Labor Market And The Middle-Class Squeeze
- Labor-market shifts create a 'frozen' market where jobs are scarce outside health care.
- Employers slow wage growth, intensifying a middle-class squeeze as living costs rise.
AI Is Real — Valuations Might Be Overheated
- AI adoption is real and productive, but market valuations may be overextended.
- Heather Long warns 2026 will sort winners from losers as investment scrutiny increases.