Letters from an American November 13, 2025
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Nov 15, 2025 The discussion dives into the clash between MAGA ideology and reality, examining false narratives pushed by Trump and allies. There's an unsettling look at the Supreme Court's potential rulings and exaggerated tariff claims. Reports debunk the myth of migrants as violent criminals, focusing on the mishandling of arrests in Chicago. Additionally, DACA recipients face targeted actions despite their cooperation with the government. Moss raises concerns over U.S. calls for military action in Venezuela, suggesting it may be a distraction from domestic issues.
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Tariff Panic Vs. Reality
- The Trump administration pushes a false economic narrative to mask policy failures and legal risk.
- Independent estimates show the real tariff exposure ($195B) is far lower than the administration's $2–3T claims.
Messaging Over Data
- The White House has tried to withhold economic data and promote anecdotal examples to claim prices are falling.
- This mismatch between messaging and data undermines credibility as consumer reports show falling confidence and rising worries.
Chicago Raid Mischaracterizations
- ProPublica documented a Chicago raid where agents filmed arrested people as gang members despite scant evidence.
- Many arrested had no criminal records and were deported or allowed to leave without criminal charges.