The aroma of fries, the sizzle of burgers – the McDonald’s Impact Summit isn’t where you’d expect to hear grand pronouncements on the state of the nation. Yet, that’s precisely where President Trump chose to make a point.
Larry Kudlow, on Fox Business, echoed the sentiment: food prices are, in fact, coming down. It’s a detail, easily overlooked, but one that Trump seized upon. It’s a moment that, depending on your perspective, either confirms an economic rebound or underscores the complexities of inflation.
Kudlow, a seasoned economist and former director of the National Economic Council, sees more than just falling prices. He sees a vision. He calls it the ‘Trumpian economy’ – a new ‘City on a Hill,’ promising prosperity and strength. The phrase, of course, is a direct echo of John Winthrop’s famous sermon, a foundational text of American idealism.
The setting matters. The McDonald’s summit itself, a gathering of franchisees and executives, offers a glimpse into the practicalities of the economy. The price of a Big Mac, the cost of labor, the supply chain – these are the realities that shape the economic landscape. Trump’s presence, and Kudlow’s commentary, suggest a focus on these tangible details.
This isn’t just about statistics. It’s about perception. Does the average American feel the economy improving? Are grocery bills manageable? These are the questions that drive political narratives.
Kudlow’s analysis, as reported by Fox Business, isn’t just about data points. It’s about a feeling, an aspiration. It’s about the promise of a better future, one where even a trip to McDonald’s can feel like a victory.