Rebecca Jackson, a Southern correspondent for The Economist, and Jason Chow, a foreign affairs writer, delve into the evolving dynamics of the Republican Party, focusing on the fading influence of never-Trumpers. They discuss the internal conflicts within the GOP, especially regarding strategies for swing states. Meanwhile, Chow highlights China's controversial decision to raise the retirement age, which could complicate childcare and family dynamics, amidst rising pension pressures. They also touch on the booming market for luxury pet care, illustrating a cultural shift in pampering our furry friends.
The Never Trumpers' influence within the Republican Party is waning, as their opposition struggles to resonate with the steadfast base of voters.
China's pension reform, raising the retirement age, poses significant societal challenges by potentially worsening the low birth rate and childcare issues.
Deep dives
The Rising Political Divide in the Republican Party
A significant shift is occurring within the Republican Party as some members openly reject Donald Trump's influence. Figures like Liz Cheney and others are forming a group known as Never Trumpers, which comprises conservatives who have voiced their opposition to Trump due to the threat they perceive he poses to democracy. This group, which includes former political strategists and politicians, seeks to distance themselves from Trump’s ideology while trying to influence other conservative voters in swing states. Despite their efforts and endorsements of Kamala Harris, polling indicates that the Republican base remains largely unyielding, suggesting that the movement might struggle to gain traction among the broader electorate.
China's Retirement Age and Its Societal Implications
In response to a pressing pension crisis, the Chinese government has raised the retirement age, a move that carries broader consequences for society. The primary concern is that this change could delay family planning for young couples, as many rely on grandparents for childcare, yet these grandparents will be working longer. The already low fertility rate in China, standing at 1.1, may decline further because families might decide to have fewer children or postpone childbirth entirely. Ultimately, this policy change could exacerbate both the aging population challenge and the immediate labor market crisis, as younger generations feel a tightening job market due to older workers remaining employed.
The Surging Luxury Pet Care Market
The luxury pet care market is booming as consumers show an increasing willingness to spend on their animals despite economic challenges. In the U.S., projected spending on pets is expected to rise from $186 billion to $261 billion by 2030, defying trends in other consumer sectors. This change has been fueled by younger generations, particularly millennials and Gen Z, who often view pets as family members and invest in their wellbeing with premium products. High-end pet brands are flourishing, and even traditional consumer giants are expanding into the pet care space, indicating a robust and growing industry that reflects shifting societal values towards animal companionship.
A handful of Republican leaders have been denouncing Donald Trump since his first presidential campaign. Will the voices of those who remain be heeded this time around? China’s attempt to fix its pensions by raising the retirement age will create a different problem with childcare (7:40). And the seemingly bottomless market for pet-pampering (14:21).