Tangle Is there an affordability crisis?
Nov 18, 2025
The conversation dives into the pressing issue of rising prices and affordability, exploring President Trump’s proposed solutions amid economic uncertainty. There’s a lively debate on whether his policies will resonate as the 2026 midterms approach. Guest Alex Thompson candidly discusses his book on Biden’s mental decline and speculates on future presidential candidates. The show also contrasts consumer sentiment with economic indicators, revealing a disconnect in public perception of the economy. Plus, a surprising tidbit about US-China satellite cooperation adds a hopeful twist!
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Policy Flurry Meets Public Anxiety
- Trump has floated many affordability measures like 50-year mortgages and $2,000 tariffs dividends while claiming the economy is strong.
- These proposals respond to consumer anxiety despite traditional indicators showing modest inflation and low unemployment.
K-Shaped Economy Deepens Inequality
- The economy shows a K-shaped recovery: asset gains for the wealthy while many households see rising costs and stagnant real incomes.
- Trump inherited and amplified structural inequalities that make affordability politically fraught.
Data Versus Public Sentiment
- Official metrics show inflation near 3% and unemployment around 4.3%, historically decent figures.
- Yet consumer sentiment sits at crisis levels, indicating a disconnect between data and lived experience.
