Agricultural Economy

U.S. Job Openings Stagnate, Raising Concerns About Economic Health

October saw U.S. job openings remaining relatively stagnant at 7.7 million, while layoffs surged to nearly 1.9 million, the highest since January 2023, according to the Labor Department’s Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS). The number of people quitting their jobs also decreased, suggesting businesses might resort to layoffs to control labor costs. These figures reflect a cooling job market influenced by factors such as high interest rates and trade policies. Due to the government shutdown, the October report was delayed, and the unemployment rate for October will be released alongside the November jobs report, with forecasts predicting a rise in the unemployment rate.

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Fed Rate Cut Looms Amid Economic Concerns and Political Influence

The Federal Reserve faces a potentially contentious meeting, as Chair Jerome Powell navigates divisions among policymakers regarding a third interest rate cut. Economists suggest that several officials might vote against the cut due to an economy marked by elevated inflation and weak job growth. The upcoming decision may be a preview of the Fed’s future direction, especially considering the potential influence of a new chair appointed by President Trump. Despite potential dissent, most economists anticipate a “hawkish cut,” with a rate reduction accompanied by signals of a pause to assess economic health.

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Poll: Nearly Half of Americans Blame President for Cost of Living, Including Some Trump Voters

A recent poll reveals that nearly a year into his second term, 46% of Americans attribute the high cost of living to President Trump’s administration, including a significant portion of his 2024 voters. Affordability is the foremost concern for the majority of Americans, with grocery prices being the most challenging expense. Furthermore, a notable percentage of Trump voters believe he has failed to address economic issues, contributing to weakening support among his coalition. This shift in sentiment has led Democrats to emphasize economic messaging, while the White House maintains its focus on improving economic conditions.

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More Americans Blame Trump for Rising Prices, Survey Finds

More Americans say Trump has helped raise prices rather than lower them: Survey, and that’s the headline everyone’s talking about. It seems the numbers are pretty clear: almost half of Americans, about 49%, believe that Trump’s actions have contributed to rising prices. In contrast, only around a quarter, 24%, think he’s done more to bring prices down. You have to wonder what’s going on when you hear these numbers, right?

More Americans say Trump has helped raise prices rather than lower them, and it’s something many of us are experiencing firsthand. We see it at the grocery store, at the gas pump, and even when we’re buying something as simple as a book.… Continue reading

Trump’s Outburst as Affordability Crisis Hits Home (Even on Fox)

The former president took to Truth Social to criticize Adam Schiff, labeling him a “Trump-hating loser” and questioning the platform given to him by Fox News. Trump also dismissed Schiff’s economic analysis, echoing a familiar claim that prices are falling, despite polls showing growing concern about the economy. This economic messaging reflects an administration that is increasingly out of touch with voters’ actual financial struggles. The mounting economic anxiety and recent electoral losses within the GOP have spurred calls for the party to reconsider its strategy and address voters’ financial concerns directly.

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Trump Calls Affordability “Scam,” Despite Voters’ Cost of Living Concerns

While the Trump administration maintains that costs are declining, a recent Politico poll reveals voter skepticism, even among Trump supporters. Despite the White House blaming the current economic state on the previous administration, a significant portion of Trump voters still hold him responsible for the economy. Concerns are focused on rising prices, particularly for groceries, housing, and healthcare, while even wealthy households are struggling with affordability. The survey highlights growing unease as inflation persists, potentially impacting the upcoming midterm elections.

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Canada Adds 54,000 Jobs in November, Contrasting US Job Data and Raising Affordability Concerns

Canada’s unemployment rate fell to 6.5% in November, the lowest in 16 months, due to a significant cool-down in population growth and the labor force. The economy added an unexpected 54,000 jobs, primarily in the private sector and among young people, though most of these gains were part-time. Alberta saw the largest employment gains, with several other provinces also contributing. Strong job growth coupled with increasing average hourly wages and recent economic data suggest the Bank of Canada is unlikely to cut interest rates anytime soon.

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Job Cuts Soar Under Trump: Worst Year Since COVID-19 Pandemic

New data indicates a significant rise in layoffs under President Trump’s administration, with over 1.17 million job losses announced in 2025, a rate not seen since the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. November alone saw 71,321 job losses, representing a 24% increase compared to the previous year. This surge in terminations coincides with Trump’s global tariff campaign, which is thought to be a contributing factor. While there are some positive economic signs, such as a drop in unemployment applications, the trend has been a marked increase in job losses in key sectors, despite the administration’s claims of economic success and job creation.

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Ukraine Strikes Russia: 50+ Targets Degrade Moscow’s Strength

Throughout the autumn of 2025, the Ukrainian Armed Forces conducted over 50 successful strikes on strategic Russian targets, including oil refineries and military facilities. These attacks, confirmed by experts, have been the most intense of the period, utilizing satellite imagery to map the damage to crucial sites. The strikes have begun to negatively impact the Russian economy, leading to fuel shortages in certain regions and reducing Russia’s military potential. Notable targets included the Saran Mechanical Plant and an oil terminal in Tuapse, prompting Russia to increase defense measures, although these efforts are believed to be weakening their overall combat capability.

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Jobs Report Blames Tariffs: Trump Official Response Reveals No Panic

Job data reveals a stark contrast in the employment landscape. Smaller firms are experiencing significant job losses, attributed to factors like tariffs and reduced consumer spending from the lower and middle classes, resulting in 120,000 job cuts. Conversely, medium and large businesses show job growth. However, the Secretary of Commerce instead placed blame on the government shutdown and Democrats.

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