John,
Donald Trump broke his biggest campaign promise, and it’s about to send the cost of your holiday meals soaring. He promised to bring down grocery prices “on day one,” but they are now the highest they’ve been in three years — and his policies are colliding to make the problem worse.
Let’s talk turkey, for instance: Prices are up 40%, largely due to the avian flu. Instead of working to contain these outbreaks which reduce supply, increase prices, and put public health at risk, Trump has fired or furloughed scientists and bird flu experts across multiple government agencies.
And how about pumpkin pie, cranberry sauce, and carrots? Given that about 60% of our fresh fruit and 35% of our fresh vegetables are imported, you can expect to pay more for your whole meal thanks to Trump’s tariffs.
Some families will be hit especially hard this year. America’s farmers and farm workers are suffering from labor force disruptions and Trump’s tariff-based trade wars. Trump is firing federal workers at unheard-of rates. And Trump’s GOP has gutted food banks and food stamps to pay for tax cuts for the richest Americans.
I hope you’ll watch this week’s video, as we pause to give thanks for what we have and those we love. And please consider sharing the video with your relatives as you make your holiday plans.
Let’s keep in mind those who have been hit most by these hardships during this holiday season that celebrates abundance. If you have the means, please consider donating or volunteering at a local food bank.
And I want to express my thanks to you — for all you do, all year long, to share your kindness with others.
Thank you for watching,
Robert Reich
Inequality Media
