
Very Serious with Josh Barro
Worthwhile Canadian Invective
Mar 6, 2025
Megan McArdle, a columnist at The Washington Post, and Ben Dreyfuss, writer of the Substack newsletter "Calm Down," join the discussion on Donald Trump's recent address to Congress. They dissect his avoidance of crucial issues like inflation and his controversial tariffs. Megan shares her disdain for a particular moment involving RFK Jr., while Ben notes a noticeable change in Trump's political vibes. They also explore the tensions between U.S. and Canadian leaders and the dynamics of political discourse, highlighting the challenges of navigating public protest.
48:32
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Quick takeaways
- Trump's lengthy address revealed growing tensions over economic policies, particularly tariffs, signaling a divide within his party regarding fiscal strategies.
- Democrats struggle to craft effective responses, as increasing grassroots activism indicates a potential shift in political momentum amid ongoing chaos.
Deep dives
Trump's Presidential Address Analysis
The speech delivered by Trump marked the longest presidential address to Congress since 1964, capturing attention with a mix of celebration and uncertainty. It started with Trump claiming a vast electoral victory, which felt more like a rally than a state address, leaving critics questioning its relevance to current issues. The focus shifted midway to inflation, a pressing concern for many voters, where Trump outlined measures aimed at addressing soaring costs, such as high egg prices influenced by bird flu. However, his proposed solutions, which included vague spending cuts, failed to provide a clear or compelling agenda for combatting inflation, raising doubts about their effectiveness.
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