California’s population grew in 2023, halting 3 years of decline. This news might come as a surprise to many, especially considering the ongoing narratives about people fleeing the state in droves. But the data tells a different story. While more people did leave California in 2023 than moved here from other states, the numbers were significantly lower than in previous years. It seems that the exodus that some have been touting may not be as significant as they claim.
One of the factors that contributed to the population growth in California was the rebound in legal international immigration. For decades, this has been the state’s growth engine, and in 2023, there was a net gain of 114,200 people from international immigration.… Continue reading
The US fertility rate has dropped to the lowest level in a century, with births dipping in 2023. As someone living in this era of high costs and scarce resources, it’s not surprising to see these trends. Everything from groceries to housing to insurance has become exorbitantly expensive, making it nearly impossible for many to afford to start a family. Daycares are not only hard to find, but when you do find one, they come with a hefty price tag. How can anyone afford to have children when the basic necessities of life are already beyond reach?
The idea of starting a family becomes even more daunting when faced with the lack of maternity leave, inadequate healthcare, and the rising cost of living.… Continue reading
I have always found the concept of pensions and retirement to be a fascinating topic. The recent Swiss vote, where they said ‘yes’ to higher pensions and ‘no’ to retiring later, has sparked a lot of debates and discussions. It is interesting to see how the Swiss voters have chosen to prioritize the well-being of pensioners over the idea of gradually raising the retirement age.
The initiative to provide an additional monthly pension payment to help pensioners struggling with the rising cost of living is commendable. It is heartening to see that the Swiss Trade Union Federation and left-of-centre parties have come together to support this cause.… Continue reading
Americans are spending the biggest share of their income on food in three decades, and it’s a concerning trend that’s affecting households across the nation. The cost of living continues to rise, and food prices are no exception. It’s not just about the price of raw ingredients; convenience and choice also play a significant role in the increasing expenses at the grocery store.
The rise in food prices is hitting families hard, with some struggling to keep up with the rising costs. Decent, healthy food is becoming increasingly expensive, while the cheaper options often lack nutritional value. The quality of fresh produce has declined over the years, leaving consumers craving the taste of truly fresh and flavorful ingredients.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood