The US Middle Class Is Doing Fine. Why Are They So Worried?

The US Middle Class Is Doing Fine. Why Are Th...

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The Future of the Democratic Party Runs Through Michigan

The path to the future of the Democratic Party — and to the White House in 2028 — may well run through Michigan. The state’s upcoming Democratic primary election is a highly anticipated showdown between a Democratic-Socialist-backed candidate and a centrist one, who are vying for ...  Show more

‘Skimpflation’ Could Be the Sneakiest Consumer Grift

From margarine to chocolate treats, some brands are swapping in cheaper ingredients to save money on their most beloved products. It’s a trend known as “skimpflation.” But what happens when consumers start to notice? On today’s Big Take podcast, Stacey Vanek Smith hears from Brad ...  Show more

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The Economy Is Weird Right Now
The NPR Politics Podcast

Unemployment in the United States is near record lows, wages are growing quickly, and spending in the service sector is increasing as the pandemic lulls.But there's also some worrying news: more job openings than people who want to fill them, global economic uncertainty stemming ...  Show more

The Economy Is Good. So Why Do We Feel Terrible About It?
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The U.S. economy is doing better than many had anticipated. Some 80 percent of jobs lost during the pandemic have been regained, and people are making, and spending, more.

But Americans seem to feel terrible about the financial outlook.

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If The Economy Is So Good, Why Are People So Mad?
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Inflation is way down, the U.S. is faring better than other major economies, and people broadly say their own personal financial situation is good. So why are people so down on the economy?This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, White House correspondent Tamara Keith, and ...  Show more

One Thing: Is the Economy Really Booming? Gen Z Isn’t So Sure.
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Despite blockbuster jobs numbers, robust consumer spending, and easing inflation, many Americans do not feel good about the US economy. The negative feelings are especially strong amongst young people struggling to pay their bills. Meanwhile, many are finding it hard – if not imp ...  Show more