The 11th Hour with Stephanie Ruhle Trump dismisses affordability crisis while scrambling to push down prices
Jan 14, 2026
David Drucker, a senior writer at The Dispatch, and Mark Joseph Stern, a senior writer at Slate, dive into the heated political climate as Trump dismisses economic affordability, labeling it as a 'fake word.' They discuss escalating tensions in Minneapolis amidst federal clashes with protestors and the DOJ's refusal to probe the controversial ICE shooting. Stern also analyzes the implications of the Supreme Court’s stance on transgender athlete cases, and both guests reflect on the broader repercussions of U.S. foreign policy amidst the turmoil in Iran.
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Foreign Deals Won't Instantly Lower Prices
- Trump frames foreign engagement as a way to "bring back" money for Americans, but benefits are uncertain.
- Panelists stress Americans need to see tangible pocketbook effects to be convinced.
'Meh' Economy Despite Boastful Claims
- Trump proclaimed inflation "stopped" while data showed 2.7% annual price growth.
- Brendan Greeley calls the economy "meh," noting growth is uneven and driven by AI investment.
A Tale Of Two Economies
- Americans experience a split economy: investors and high-income benefit, many others do not.
- Max Chafkin warns grocery and everyday prices keep household budgets strained.