Former President Donald Trump claims that the U.S. economy is headed towards a “Great Depression,” fueling debate on the stability of the economy under the Biden administration. How well-founded are these claims, and what do they mean for the average American?
Trump’s Dire Forecast
At a South Dakota campaign rally, Donald Trump didn’t mince words when discussing the U.S. economy under Joe Biden.
“We’re probably heading into a Great Depression,” he said, a claim he’d not made before in public. He described this as a “hell of a statement to make,” but made it nonetheless.
Economic Metrics: What Do They Show?
While Trump predicts a bleak future, data from the Federal Reserve and the Labor Department offer a contrasting view. The Fed’s recent report noted moderate economic growth in July and August.
Lower Unemployment
Moreover, unemployment benefit applications have dropped to their lowest since February of this year, a sign that generally points to a stable job market.
The Inflation Puzzle
Persistent inflation remains a concern, but Federal Reserve officials appear confident that a recession will be avoided this year.
Trump has previously stated that the economy is heading for “more than a recession,” but the data at this point doesn’t fully support that view.
Interest Rates: A Tightrope Walk
Financial institutions and investors have cautioned the Federal Reserve against increasing interest rates.
The concern is that any further increase could lead to a “hard landing” for the economy – a period of rapid growth followed by a steep decline.
Political Angles
Trump presented voters with a choice between a “Biden economic bust” and a “Trump economic boom.”
He took swipes at Biden for prioritizing his family’s financial well-being over that of the American people.
Narrative Shift
Interestingly, in the South Dakota rally, Trump took a dramatic turn in his rhetoric that condemns “woke ideology,” something he had avoided in the past but is a focal point for his rival Ron DeSantis.
Trump accused Joe Biden of allowing the military to become “woke” and charged that Biden’s administration is causing widespread harm.
Strong Language
He strongly stated that under Biden, “They’re looting our middle class, mutilating our children.”
This shift and the intensity of his language indicate that Trump is increasingly aligning with a hardline conservative message that criticizes current social and cultural movements.
Endorsements
Ahead of the South Dakota rally, Trump received an endorsement from the state’s Governor, Kristi Noem.
Future Debates
He also revealed his willingness to debate the Democratic nominee next year while avoiding debates with Republican primary contenders.
This decision further cements his self-view as the uncontested “leader of the party.”
Legal Troubles: A Side Story
Trump’s rally in South Dakota was his first public appearance since being indicted on charges related to election subversion in Georgia.
He took the opportunity to term these charges as politically motivated, saying they were “a campaign thing that they’re doing.”
The Final Take
Trump’s dire economic predictions seem to contrast with existing economic indicators. While inflation remains a concern, current data does not yet signify an impending recession, let alone a Great Depression.
As the 2024 Presidential elections approach, economic performance will likely be a pivotal issue, and whether Trump’s predictions come true remain to be seen.
The Larger Context
The U.S. economy is a cornerstone issue for both parties. Trump’s predictions come at a time when he is trying to position himself for a potential return to the White House.
How the American people perceive the stability and direction of the economy under the current administration could significantly impact the next election.
Empty Claims?
While Trump’s claims add an element of drama to the already heated political climate, economic data at this point paints a less dire picture.
His predictions may stoke concerns among his supporters, but they stand in contrast to current economic indicators.
As the months roll on, the economy’s actual performance will either validate or debunk Trump’s claims, but for now, it’s a wait-and-see situation.
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The post “Biden Economic Bust” or “Trump Economic Boom?” – Is an Economic Depression Looming? Trump Seems to Think So first appeared on Mama Say What?!.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Evan El-Amin. The people shown in the images are for illustrative purposes only, not the actual people featured in the story.
