Marketplace Morning Report The president shares his thoughts on the economy
Dec 18, 2025
In this discussion, Nancy Marshall-Genser, a savvy Marketplace reporter, dives into President Trump's economic claims, dissecting what's accurate and what's not. Meanwhile, John Breaux, a consumer protection expert, sheds light on the alarming rise of AI-driven scams. They explore how scammers are utilizing fake websites and ads to deceive unsuspecting buyers. Breaux offers practical tips to protect yourself, highlighting secure payment methods and key checks before making online purchases. It's a revealing look at the intersection of economics and technology.
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Mixed Accuracy In Presidential Economic Claims
- President Trump mixed accurate, misleading, and incorrect claims about the economy in his 19-minute address.
- Nancy Marshall-Genzer fact-checked gas, wages, and tax claims to show nuance behind headline statements.
Gas And Wage Numbers Don’t Tell The Full Story
- Gas prices fell but not as low as the president claimed, averaging nearly $2.90 per gallon according to AAA.
- Wages are rising but at about 3.5%, slower than earlier in the term and only modestly ahead of inflation.
Tax Cuts Favor Higher Earners, Limited Senior Relief
- The new tax and spending law includes targeted breaks but won't eliminate Social Security taxation for most seniors.
- The Tax Foundation estimates average refunds rise $300–$1,000 and higher-income households gain more.