The Assignment with Audie Cornish Is the Economy OK? Why It Might Not Feel Like It to You
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Nov 20, 2025 Allison Morrow, a senior writer at CNN Business, dives into the unsettling realities of the U.S. economy. She discusses the alarming disconnect between official data and everyday struggles, like rising grocery prices and increased miss payments. Morrow highlights how ‘affordability’ has shifted in political discourse and the nuances of consumer spending amidst economic disparity. With insights on crowdfunding essentials and the impact of corporate AI investments, she sheds light on the financial fragility many experience, even as markets seem steady.
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Data Vs. Daily Experience
- The official data can show stability while everyday experiences feel strained because prices rose fast and haven't reverted.
- Allison Morrow explains inflation fell from 9% to ~3% but prices rarely go down, so people remember higher past costs.
Affordability As A Political Force
- Affordability became a potent political message because prices hit people's everyday budgets hard.
- Morrow notes inflation's rapid rise created lasting consumer fatigue and K-shaped recovery effects.
TikTok Price Grievances
- Social posts show specific price shocks like hummus or peppers to illustrate affordability pain.
- Morrow says younger, lower-income people post about these everyday squeezes and change buying habits.