IlliniHQ 2

General Category => The Deuce => Topic started by: Custard on February 06, 2026, 05:58:27 PM

Title: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on February 06, 2026, 05:58:27 PM
Dow hit 50k today

My 401K and other investments absolutely killed it overall in 2025 and Jan 26

Gas $2.49 and bought milk for $1.94 and eggs for $1.88 the other day

At this rate I’ll be able to own as many homes as murph before long!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 06, 2026, 09:21:14 PM
AI overview

The U.S. economy currently presents a "paradox" of robust top-line growth paired with increasing household financial strain and a softening labor market. As of February 2026, the United States remains the world's largest economy with a nominal GDP of approximately $31.8 trillion.

Key Economic Indicators (February 2026)

*GDP Growth: Real GDP expanded at an annualized rate of 4.4% in the third quarter of 2025, driven by firm consumer spending, surging exports (up 9.6%), and higher government outlays.

*Inflation: The Consumer Price Index (CPI) cooled to 2.7% in late 2025, down from earlier peaks but still above the Federal Reserve's 2% target.

*Unemployment: The unemployment rate stands at 4.4% as of December 2025, a four-year high, indicating a cooling labor market characterized by a "low-hire, low-fire" equilibrium.

*Interest Rates: The federal funds rate remains in the 3.75% to 4.00% range, with the Federal Reserve weighing potential cuts for the remainder of 2026.

Emerging Trends & Challenges

*"K-Shaped" Recovery: Analysts at Bank of America note an uneven distribution of wealth; while a projected $65 billion surge in tax refunds from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) may boost discretionary spending, it primarily benefits higher-income households.

*Tariff Impacts:The implementation of a broad tariff regime has begun to impact trade patterns, contributing to a widened trade deficit in late 2025 ($56.8 billion in November) and increasing costs for some consumer goods.

*AI Infrastructure Boom: Massive investment in artificial intelligence infrastructure has provided a significant boost to fixed investment and productivity growth, though it remains a "wild card" for future labor demand.

*Consumer Sentiment: Sentiment remains fragile, with the University of Michigan Survey of Consumers showing a reading of 57.3 for February—an improvement from January but still reflecting anxiety over the cost of living and a softening job market.

Fiscal Position

The national debt has exceeded $35 trillion, resulting in a debt-to-GDP ratio of over 120%. This high debt level, combined with a persistent budget deficit, remains a central concern for long-term fiscal stability.

Would you like to explore the specific impact of the new tariff policies on a particular industry or see the latest stock market performance?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 07, 2026, 02:49:35 PM
Dow hit 50k today

My 401K and other investments absolutely killed it overall in 2025 and Jan 26

Gas $2.49 and bought milk for $1.94 and eggs for $1.88 the other day

At this rate I’ll be able to own as many homes as murph before long!

You’re like my cousin. “Muh 401k is killing it - up 20%!!!”

Meaning it went from 10k to 12k

He’s 57.

Meanwhile long term bond yields are rising - hope you can pay cash as mortgage rates will not be going down. And you’ll be competing for those homes vs people making ridiculous money.

958 California street - Mountain View.

Sold for 2.5M 8 months ago. The buyer sold his AI startup so he moved to SF to work at Open AI, and is selling. Listed for 2.85M

K shaped indeed
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 07, 2026, 03:09:08 PM
Bitcoin was worth about $67,000 on Thursday, AP reported. That is lower than when Trump was elected in November 2024. It hit a record high on October 6, 2025, at $126,210.50.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 07, 2026, 03:16:59 PM
Bitcoin was worth about $67,000 on Thursday, AP reported. That is lower than when Trump was elected in November 2024. It hit a record high on October 6, 2025, at $126,210.50.

Paper losses for the terrorists and cartels right now until they have to sell
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 07, 2026, 03:34:12 PM
Bitcoin was worth about $67,000 on Thursday, AP reported. That is lower than when Trump was elected in November 2024. It hit a record high on October 6, 2025, at $126,210.50.

And he’s even rigging the crypto game. Poorly. Like just about everything else he manages.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 07, 2026, 05:03:06 PM
Paper losses for the terrorists and cartels right now until they have to sell

Trump will claim credit for crashing bitcoin in order to punish the cartels.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on February 13, 2026, 10:16:33 AM
Sorry to disappoint everyone. Inflation down to 2.4% in Jan, strong jobs report, mortgage interest fell again this week. Gas is cheap and eggs and milk both under $2 at Aldi.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 13, 2026, 10:29:28 AM
Sorry to disappoint everyone. Inflation down to 2.4% in Jan, strong jobs report, mortgage interest fell again this week. Gas is cheap and eggs and milk both under $2 at Aldi.

Yet even rich people are apparently behind on their bills.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 13, 2026, 10:33:29 AM
Yet even rich people are apparently behind on their bills.

Maybe they should contact Tempo and Bernie on how to better spend their money…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 10:54:48 AM
Fatass makes a nice salary in a part of the country where cost of living is low. Economy is great.

Good job Fatass.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 10:58:19 AM
The head coach at Bradley makes 800k a year. In Peoria, IL. I'm guessing he has zero economy issues.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 13, 2026, 11:04:00 AM
Fatass makes a nice salary in a part of the country where cost of living is low. Economy is great.

Good job Fatass.

Well, you don't pay a lot in dollars, but you pay in cancer and heart disease.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 13, 2026, 11:09:31 AM
Not sure why a lot of people in this country wanna live in cities where it costs $3000/month for rent in a studio apartment etc.., when they can live in a country club mansion for that in other areas of the country. The government thanks you. Now they can control you by having to rely on them for everything. Maybe go somewhere where gas isn’t still $5/gallon, POPS cereal isn’t $10/box, and eggs aren’t $10/dozen. Y'all are fucking retarded doing that shit. So quit blaming others like Custard for your retarded decisions…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 11:15:18 AM
Where did I blame fatass for anything?

Weird unhinged rant. Sounds about right.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 13, 2026, 11:17:53 AM
Fatass makes a nice salary in a part of the country where cost of living is low. Economy is great.

Good job Fatass.

🤔 I don’t know Jobu, where did you…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 11:18:17 AM
Oh, and last I checked, you said something about taking welfare. So, you took some of my tax dollars.

You're welcome, you piece of shit.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 11:19:08 AM
🤔 I don’t know Jobu, where did you…

You need to learn how to read and comprehend...

Oh, never mind. Not worth the effort. Happy Friday.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 13, 2026, 11:19:39 AM
Not sure why a lot of people in this country wanna live in cities where it costs $3000/month for rent in a studio apartment etc.., when they can live in a country club mansion for that in other areas of the country. The government thanks you. Now they can control you by having to rely on them for everything. Maybe go somewhere where gas isn’t still $5/gallon, POPS cereal isn’t $10/box, and eggs aren’t $10/dozen. Y'all are fucking retarded doing that shit. So quit blaming others like Custard for your retarded decisions…

The median household income in Santa Clara County is among the highest in the U.S., with recent data (2020-2024) indicating a median of approximately $164,281 to $166,984

In 2023, the median individual income in Logan County, Illinois, was $36,855
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 13, 2026, 11:20:39 AM
Oh, and last I checked, you said something about taking welfare. So, you took some of my tax dollars.

You're welcome, you piece of shit.

LOL, uh oh, looks like we’re gonna have on of those days. Everybody check your inbox and hope you don’t catch any strays…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 11:21:18 AM
The median household income in Santa Clara County is among the highest in the U.S., with recent data (2020-2024) indicating a median of approximately $164,281 to $166,984

In 2023, the median individual income in Logan County, Illinois, was $36,855

I would have guessed the Logan County income was lower. Maybe they're factoring in meth sales.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 13, 2026, 11:21:41 AM
The median household income in Santa Clara County is among the highest in the U.S., with recent data (2020-2024) indicating a median of approximately $164,281 to $166,984

In 2023, the median individual income in Logan County, Illinois, was $36,855

Now do cost of living and it’ll balance out…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 11:22:31 AM
LOL, uh oh, looks like we’re gonna have on of those days. Everybody check your inbox and hope you don’t catch any strays…

Haha, nah. It's a beautiful day in Washington, IL.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 13, 2026, 11:23:14 AM
Haha, nah. It's a beautiful day in Washington, IL.

Good to hear! I also heard somebody up there at your Casey’s won $850,000 in the lottery. You?!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 11:23:28 AM
Now do cost of living and it’ll balance out…

No shit, sherlock
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 11:24:02 AM
When Trump shows up in Lincoln, let me know. lol
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 11:26:10 AM
So, I hope you took some of the money I gave you and made good use out of it.

Probably not tho
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 11:29:31 AM
Fucking leach
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 13, 2026, 11:30:41 AM
Now do cost of living and it’ll balance out…

Eggs might be more expensive in Santa Clara County than Lincoln Illinois - but a F-150 costs the same. A trip to Disneyland is cheaper, a trip to the beach is substantially cheaper, and I didn't have to buy a snow shovel. It cost me $2 on VTA for transport to the Super Bowl.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 11:32:48 AM
Judy didn't have to buy a snow shovel either. He used his welfare money.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 11:35:14 AM
It's a special kind of piece of shit that takes welfare money then becomes a MAGA trumper.

Unfortunately, there are a lot of them. It's a weird fucking dynamic.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 11:37:55 AM
And, just to be clear and a little transparent, I've leaned conservative for the most part in my life. Shared a lot of those beliefs.

But this Trump shit. Nope. It's a fucking cult. I know I'm not about to change a mind, so I'm not going to try to.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 13, 2026, 11:39:11 AM
It's a special kind of piece of shit that takes welfare money then becomes a MAGA trumper.

Unfortunately, there are a lot of them. It's a weird fucking dynamic.

Hey man, twenty years ago to get back on my feet for a couple months is what it’s there for. If you don’t think people are living on that shit, you are retarded. It’s not there to make it a lifestyle. It’s temporary assistance. Not meant to be a lifelong, generational assistance.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 13, 2026, 11:41:12 AM
People complaining about the work requirements for able-bodied adults. If you’re not working and able-bodied, you shouldn’t be entitled to get it. Why the fuck aren’t you working then?! There’s exemptions for disabled and elderly adults. Not wanting to work isn’t a reason to get public assistance…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 11:59:25 AM
Hey man, twenty years ago to get back on my feet for a couple months is what it’s there for. If you don’t think people are living on that shit, you are retarded. It’s not there to make it a lifestyle. It’s temporary assistance. Not meant to be a lifelong, generational assistance.

Never forget where you came from. You were a piece of shit. You're still a piece of shit.

Own it.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 12:00:29 PM
People complaining about the work requirements for able-bodied adults. If you’re not working and able-bodied, you shouldn’t be entitled to get it. Why the fuck aren’t you working then?! There’s exemptions for disabled and elderly adults. Not wanting to work isn’t a reason to get public assistance…

Who the fuck are you talking to? Trying to justify taking my tax dollars?

Interesting.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 12:01:51 PM
Hey man, twenty years ago to get back on my feet for a couple months is what it’s there for. If you don’t think people are living on that shit, you are retarded. It’s not there to make it a lifestyle. It’s temporary assistance. Not meant to be a lifelong, generational assistance.

Couple months. Lol, my fucking ass. Nobody takes welfare for a couple months.

Piece of shit
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 13, 2026, 12:05:13 PM
LOLOLOL this is why I love this board…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 12:06:03 PM
People complaining about the work requirements for able-bodied adults. If you’re not working and able-bodied, you shouldn’t be entitled to get it. Why the fuck aren’t you working then?! There’s exemptions for disabled and elderly adults. Not wanting to work isn’t a reason to get public assistance…

What about the dude that has a shit job at Walmart that still doesn't have enough to live? No public assistance for him?

And, why did I have to pay for you to survive for 2 months? Fuck you. You should have to starve like everyone else. You were able bodied right?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 12:06:55 PM
Hey, guys. Judy needed government assistance for a couple months. We should accept that.

MAGA.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 12:07:56 PM
Judy was able bodied, and taking welfare. Now, he's firing on people that are able bodied and taking welfare.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 12:08:41 PM
Can anyone make that make sense?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 13, 2026, 01:03:59 PM
Now do cost of living and it’ll balance out…

To be fair those people in Logan County qualify for food stamps from Jobu’s taxes
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 13, 2026, 01:10:44 PM
I just want to read Spark Mandrilll's opinions on this debate.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 01:32:09 PM
To be fair those people in Logan County qualify for food stamps from Jobu’s taxes

Apparently JudgeJudy qualifies too
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 01:32:38 PM
I just want to read Spark Mandrilll's opinions on this debate.

Why? He's a fag. His opinion doesn't matter.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 13, 2026, 01:45:43 PM
Chicago Sun-Times didn't get the memo.

https://chicago.suntimes.com/the-watchdogs/2026/02/13/grocery-prices-chicago-climbed-inflation-trump-cpi-food

Grocery prices in Chicago have climbed double digits over the past year despite Trump's vow to lower them
The Sun-Times has been checking the prices of 35 common grocery items at four Chicago stores for the past year and most items haven’t become cheaper.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 13, 2026, 01:46:46 PM
Not sure why a lot of people in this country wanna live in cities

Cheap public transportation
Access to healthcare

Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 01:49:15 PM
Chicago Sun-Times didn't get the memo.

https://chicago.suntimes.com/the-watchdogs/2026/02/13/grocery-prices-chicago-climbed-inflation-trump-cpi-food

Grocery prices in Chicago have climbed double digits over the past year despite Trump's vow to lower them
The Sun-Times has been checking the prices of 35 common grocery items at four Chicago stores for the past year and most items haven’t become cheaper.

Nah, that can't be right. Fake news.

Fatass lives in Tennessee, and things are great. So, what you shared must be inaccurate.

Try again.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 02:12:36 PM
To take the politics and the bullshit out of it...

You're talking to someone on here that grew up dirt ass poor. Literally. Dirt. I lived in a trailer in Rantoul until I was 10. There were nights that when I was hungry my mom gave me a piece of bread and told me to fold it in half. Bread sandwich. And I ate that, then I laid down because I didn't have energy. I didn't want to play because I was hungry.

I don't honestly know what my parents did as far as assistance. I'm sure they were getting it, but it wasn't enough to keep my belly full.

When I grew up, I promised myself that I would have enough. Always. That's all I ever wanted. Just enough.

Now, I do have enough, and maybe even a little bit more. Not enough to brag like Fatass, but I have enough and I'm doing well. When I want to go out to eat, I don't think about it too much. When I want to go to a game, I go. Basically, I have the ability to do whatever. And that's great. But I also know that I'm one bad phone call or business decision from not having those luxuries. And I think a lot of us are in that boat too, whether we want to admit that or not.

One call from your boss saying "we are going in a different direction, thanks see ya later" will change your life. And there is nothing you can do about it.

So, then, an "able bodied" (according to dipshit Judy) person needs help, and suddenly I, or someone else, gets looked down on by a piece of shit like Judy because, hey, you're able bodied. Why should I have to pay for you?!

Nah, fuck that. Fuck people like JudgeJudy. And fuck people like Fatass. Fuck all of you assholes. We're all out here trying to survive. Yeah, some of us are comfortable now, but we're one crazy decision away from being really damn uncomfortable. And I will be fucking damned if a piece of shit like JudgeJudy tells me, or anyone else how to live.

Fuck you.

Hope that was clear and concise.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 02:54:43 PM
You fuckers want to know what's crazy?

Sometimes, I eat a bread sandwich. Just two fucking pieces of bread, mashed together. To remember where I came from.

Maybe some of you assholes need to remember where you came from too...
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 13, 2026, 02:55:26 PM
To take the politics and the bullshit out of it...

You're talking to someone on here that grew up dirt ass poor. Literally. Dirt. I lived in a trailer in Rantoul until I was 10. There were nights that when I was hungry my mom gave me a piece of bread and told me to fold it in half. Bread sandwich. And I ate that, then I laid down because I didn't have energy. I didn't want to play because I was hungry.

I don't honestly know what my parents did as far as assistance. I'm sure they were getting it, but it wasn't enough to keep my belly full.

When I grew up, I promised myself that I would have enough. Always. That's all I ever wanted. Just enough.

Fuck you.

Hope that was clear and concise.

well said.

I didn't grow up poor. My Dad worried about money constantly - I attribute that to his family being a half notch below the family he created, and stories of the depression he grew up with. He wasn't fanatical about it, but you would notice things like given three options at a restaurant, he might eliminate the one he didn't like and then take the cheaper of the two remaining. Guac is extra? No Guac. Fix his own car, appliances, he built my bed frame in his workshop. A lot of that is just common sense or investment in self, but it adds up and by the time he passed they were very comfortable. I started another half notch up but took the lessons, I have co-workers with Porsches, my wife and I share one car and I bike to work.

That sort of sense of things built in my the understanding - no child in this rich ass country should be eating a bread sandwich, or having a growling stomach. Why the fuck are their means qualifiers for free school lunches? School lunches are dirt cheap. Just make it free, stop paying the administrators, and feed the kids. It pays massive dividends in children's outcomes - both from removing hunger and stigmas.

Removing literal hunger doesn't remove the hunger to achieve - but literal hunger can get in the way of achievement.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 03:06:31 PM
well said.

I didn't grow up poor. My Dad worried about money constantly - I attribute that to his family being a half notch below the family he created, and stories of the depression he grew up with. He wasn't fanatical about it, but you would notice things like given three options at a restaurant, he might eliminate the one he didn't like and then take the cheaper of the two remaining. Guac is extra? No Guac. Fix his own car, appliances, he built my bed frame in his workshop. A lot of that is just common sense or investment in self, but it adds up and by the time he passed they were very comfortable. I started another half notch up but took the lessons, I have co-workers with Porsches, my wife and I share one car and I bike to work.

That sort of sense of things built in my the understanding - no child in this rich ass country should be eating a bread sandwich, or having a growling stomach. Why the fuck are their means qualifiers for free school lunches? School lunches are dirt cheap. Just make it free, stop paying the administrators, and feed the kids. It pays massive dividends in children's outcomes - both from removing hunger and stigmas.

Removing literal hunger doesn't remove the hunger to achieve - but literal hunger can get in the way of achievement.

I don't know. I remember going to school with a piece of bread in a brown paper bag because my mom couldn't, or didn't want to buy hot lunch tickets.

I made sure to fold the bread so it looked like a real sandwich lol

Yeah, it was a hell of a way to live. But that was my normal. It sucked.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 13, 2026, 03:15:41 PM
Don't know if school lunches are the answer if ketchup is classified as a vegetable, but it's sure better than nothing.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 13, 2026, 03:25:07 PM
Don't know if school lunches are the answer if ketchup is classified as a vegetable, but it's sure better than nothing.

If we had the moxie to fix the first problem, the second problem would be trivial.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 03:27:15 PM
Ask a piece of shit like Judy how he feels about a kid getting a lunch at school. Even though he took money from my paycheck.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on February 13, 2026, 03:56:33 PM
Chicago Sun-Times didn't get the memo.

https://chicago.suntimes.com/the-watchdogs/2026/02/13/grocery-prices-chicago-climbed-inflation-trump-cpi-food

Grocery prices in Chicago have climbed double digits over the past year despite Trump's vow to lower them
The Sun-Times has been checking the prices of 35 common grocery items at four Chicago stores for the past year and most items haven’t become cheaper.

From your story:

Quote
At Walmart, many of the 35 items on our list dropped in price more often than they rose compared to one year ago. Seventeen items went down, totaling $9.60 in savings; seven items increased by a total of $5.81; seven stayed the same; and four didn’t have enough data to be tracked.

The more upscale stores didn’t come down because they know people will pay it. At least for a while. The “affordability crisis” is objectively the worst in blue cities/states, these people are so used to being fleeced for fucking everything that they get numb to it right up until the point the bills exceed the income.

Commodity prices are low. Energy prices are low. Most of the things that go into making and distributing food are pretty cheap right now. So if prices keep going up at your store, you’re getting fucked by Big Food and your grocer. 

(Yes, some things like beef are supply constrained because herd size is low and demand remains high or imported stuff like coffee that are subject to tariffs)


Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 04:08:48 PM
Yes, subject to tariffs put on by the orange clown. lol
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 04:09:35 PM
Still waiting on my DOGE check and my tariffs check, btw.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 04:12:08 PM
Fucking fatass
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 13, 2026, 04:36:16 PM
Yes, subject to tariffs put on by the orange clown. lol

Grocery expert Phil Lempert, known as the “Supermarket Guru,” said price increases that slammed consumers beginning in mid-2022 are mostly not going away. Climate change is affecting crops and cattle; tariffs are hitting imports and messing up farming forecasts; and immigration enforcement is impacting labor, Lempert said. And the large publicly owned food and consumer product companies are under pressure to deliver growth for their stockholders.

“It puts the consumer in a really difficult position because there’s not a lot we can do,” Lempert said.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 04:39:31 PM
The orange clown said he was going to fix it. Idk
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 04:41:34 PM
I guess, according to Fatass and welfare bitch, everything is ok.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 13, 2026, 04:46:56 PM
With the number of people who lie before Congress on behalf of this administration who knows what numbers we can believe these days.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 13, 2026, 04:48:56 PM
With the number of people who lie before Congress on behalf of this administration who knows what numbers we can believe these days.

There seems to be plenty of skepticism of the job numbers, especially given the big downward revision for 2025.

We may be entering Stalin Territory when it comes to government statistics.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 04:49:06 PM
Yeah.

I kinda want to hate fuck Pam Bondi. Is that weird?

That's probably weird.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 04:49:41 PM
Anyway...

I'm playing Bingo tonight lol. Hope I win
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 04:51:48 PM
I mean, if you could get Charlie's bitch, Bondi and Leavitt in a room and just hate fuck, ...

Yeah, wow. That's a lot. So much crazy.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 13, 2026, 04:52:11 PM
Anyway...

I'm playing Bingo tonight lol. Hope I win

I hope you win so Tempo can tell you how to spend the winnings.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 13, 2026, 04:52:52 PM
I hope you win so Tempo can tell you how to spend the winnings.

My wife will probably take them...

Bummer
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 13, 2026, 04:58:28 PM
I don't know. I remember going to school with a piece of bread in a brown paper bag because my mom couldn't, or didn't want to buy hot lunch tickets.

I made sure to fold the bread so it looked like a real sandwich lol

Yeah, it was a hell of a way to live. But that was my normal. It sucked.

That’s awful. My parents were divorced and we didn’t always have money either. I remember when I once “spent my mom’s last two dollars” on Binaca Blast. She was not happy. I remember her mocking me “Here’s your steak (pretends to “shoot” steak into her mouth), here’s your salad (pretends to shoot salad into her mouth)!

Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 13, 2026, 05:11:08 PM
I guess, according to Fatass and welfare bitch, everything is ok.

I need some welfare. I’m unemployed
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on February 13, 2026, 05:39:36 PM
Grocery expert Phil Lempert, known as the “Supermarket Guru,” said price increases that slammed consumers beginning in mid-2022 are mostly not going away. Climate change is affecting crops and cattle; tariffs are hitting imports and messing up farming forecasts; and immigration enforcement is impacting labor, Lempert said. And the large publicly owned food and consumer product companies are under pressure to deliver growth for their stockholders.

“It puts the consumer in a really difficult position because there’s not a lot we can do,” Lempert said.

Well, Mr Lempert, crops are dirt cheap because we have too many of them, so I’m not sure we can blame that on the climate. Some of beef shortage can be blamed on drought; this is cyclical as we raise a lot of cattle in places it gets dry. The high beef demand has influenced ranchers and growers to send heifers to market rather than hold them back to breed and expand their herds thus the smallest herd size since the 1950s. The labor issue hasn’t come to fruition the way anyone who was worried about it said it might. Basically he kinda sounds like a guy who fronts for Big Food.

Walmart lowered prices on over half the stuff because they’re price driven. The other stores didn’t because they’re service/brand driven.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 13, 2026, 06:03:31 PM
Well, Mr Lempert, crops are dirt cheap because we have too many of them, so I’m not sure we can blame that on the climate. Some of beef shortage can be blamed on drought; this is cyclical as we raise a lot of cattle in places it gets dry. The high beef demand has influenced ranchers and growers to send heifers to market rather than hold them back to breed and expand their herds thus the smallest herd size since the 1950s. The labor issue hasn’t come to fruition the way anyone who was worried about it said it might. Basically he kinda sounds like a guy who fronts for Big Food.

Walmart lowered prices on over half the stuff because they’re price driven. The other stores didn’t because they’re service/brand driven.

The only salad that gets near custards mouth is a word salad
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 13, 2026, 06:20:29 PM
Going to guess the rents are lower in Skokie, where the Walmart is, compared to Chicago
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 13, 2026, 06:37:45 PM

 I lived in a trailer in Rantoul until I was 10.

You were a 'Toulie'?

That's what Craig Vetter used to call the local inhabitants way back in the day.

 
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 13, 2026, 07:22:35 PM
I hope you win so Tempo can tell you how to spend the winnings.

Have I ever told you how to spend your money?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 13, 2026, 08:26:43 PM
Have I ever told you how to spend your money?

Yes, since I am a balance sheet millionaire.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 13, 2026, 10:48:24 PM
What did I tell you to do with it?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 14, 2026, 07:40:32 AM
What did I tell you to do with it?

Pay it as taxes instead of removing my toilets.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 14, 2026, 09:32:53 AM
Pay it as taxes instead of removing my toilets.

You probably pay enough already. Might need to see your returns, though.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 14, 2026, 10:34:40 AM
You probably pay enough already. Might need to see your returns, though.

My plumber says it would be smart to remove the toilets from one of my houses.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 14, 2026, 10:40:38 AM
My plumber says it would be smart to remove the toilets from one of my houses.

You should do it then
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 14, 2026, 04:59:07 PM
 I quit working so I wouldn’t have to subsidize Custard
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on February 14, 2026, 10:44:47 PM
I quit working so I wouldn’t have to subsidize Custard

I subsidize your free use of this magnificent website, one of the top ten Illini message boards on the internet today.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 14, 2026, 10:51:44 PM
I subsidize your free use of this magnificent website, one of the top ten Illini message boards on the internet today.

We don't charge you for our content
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on February 14, 2026, 11:37:29 PM
Going to guess the rents are lower in Skokie, where the Walmart is, compared to Chicago

Plays right into the fact that blue cities are the epicenters of the “affordability crisis”

Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on February 15, 2026, 12:32:41 AM
Yesterday afternoon a couple asked us if we’d like to go to dinner with them last night. Granted it’s a holiday weekend and lots of people go out to eat, but we couldn’t get a reservation anywhere. Wait times for walk-ins were 60-90 mins. This isn’t downtown or some tourist area, this is in the exurbs. Ended up at a chain steak place out of pure desperation and still waited for 30+ mins to get a table.

Tonight had a reservation I made two weeks ago to take the girls to Valentine’s dinner at a local but fairly large Italian place. Couldn’t find parking, line out the door on a chilly night for the walk ups waiting for a table. We left at 9 and every table was still full and walk ups were still waiting in the lobby to get in. Every place we drove past was completely full.

No, everything isn’t perfect, but you’d think we are in the midst of the Great Depression from the posts some people make here. I travel at least 3 days a week for work all over the country and everywhere I go the restaurants/bars are busy and lively.

To end with a Murphism:

If people can’t afford steak and booze, these places wouldn’t be slammed.

If these places weren’t slammed, the price of steak and booze wouldn’t be so high.

QED
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 15, 2026, 12:53:56 AM
I decided to get a part-time server job at Texas Roadhouse and we had a waiting list of 900 people today at one point. When we opened at 11am, we had a line waiting clear around the building and completely full within 5 minutes. The economy is just fine…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 15, 2026, 02:27:03 AM
I decided to get a part-time server job at Texas Roadhouse and we had a waiting list of 900 people today at one point. When we opened at 11am, we had a line waiting clear around the building and completely full within 5 minutes. The economy is just fine…

So fine a college educated bureaucrat needed a 2nd job waiting tables!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 15, 2026, 02:29:21 AM
As someone who worked 20 years in the restaurant industry, Valentine’s Day is ALWAYS one of the busiest days of the year. And it was a Saturday.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 15, 2026, 08:11:18 AM
Plays right into the fact that blue cities are the epicenters of the “affordability crisis”

You said there is no crisis
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 15, 2026, 10:28:16 AM
You said there is no crisis

Good catch
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on February 15, 2026, 11:04:53 AM
You said there is no crisis

Where? And when I do say it it’s in quotes because I’m mocking it. When prices were skyrocketing in 2021-22 and restaurants took prices out of their menus because they were changing so often, Ray told us it was just transitory. 4 years later and a different president, and every MSM company starts running the same “affordability crisis” narrative like this just started. Naturally, Ray believes that, as well.

And yes, blue states and cities are the places hardest hit by persistent high prices because people in these areas grit their teeth and convince themselves they love it right up until the money runs out. Then you have what’s happening in California.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 15, 2026, 11:50:42 AM
When prices were skyrocketing in 2021-22 and restaurants took prices out of their menus because they were changing so often, Ray told us it was just transitory.

The fed initially said the post pandemic was transitory. Not sure where you got the just part. It was world wide and related to bottlenecked supply chains.

It proved to be more persistent than expected. Some say this was due to other transient factors; stimulus packages, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, a labor shortage... The Fed backed off calling it Transitory

Quote
4 years later and a different president, and every MSM company starts running the same “affordability crisis” narrative like this just started. Naturally, Ray believes that, as well.

I have said and believe no such thing.

Inflation has slowed to almost pre-pandemic levels, but prices remain high and tariffs have made the cup of coffee I am enjoying too expensive. Trade relations are not good.

It's not a crisis. Not yet. More like snafu

Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 15, 2026, 06:38:54 PM
So fine a college educated bureaucrat needed a 2nd job waiting tables!

Not needed, wanted. There’s a difference. There are a lot of opportunities to get ahead in this world. Are you willing to do it is the question…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 15, 2026, 10:37:58 PM
So fine a college educated bureaucrat needed a 2nd job waiting tables!

Pretty sure he’s washing dishes
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 15, 2026, 10:40:03 PM
Not needed, wanted. There’s a difference. There are a lot of opportunities to get ahead in this world. Are you willing to do it is the question…

Summary - your primary job isn’t keeping you busy nor wealthy
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 16, 2026, 05:09:53 AM
Not needed, wanted. There’s a difference. There are a lot of opportunities to get ahead in this world. Are you willing to do it is the question…

Semantics, if your day job was paying you a salary you were satisfied with you wouldn’t be getting a second job
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 16, 2026, 06:52:19 AM
Only fucktards think voter fraud is a “serious” issue in America. It’s been proven again and again that it isn’t; gerrymandering is a much bigger issue.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 16, 2026, 07:48:15 AM
Starbuck’s Pike Place K Cups (my personal favorite) are now $14.99 per 10 at Jewel. Not long ago they were $8.99.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 16, 2026, 09:15:04 AM
You could go to Wegmans for a better price than at The Jewel.

I get 2 1/2 pounds of coffee for less than your 20 burned bean K-cups.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 16, 2026, 09:45:56 AM
I go to Woodman’s for most of my stuff. Those same K cups are probably $5 cheaper at Woodman’s. Saw an item at Jewel this morning that was $6.49. I can get the same item at Woodman’s for $3.49.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 16, 2026, 09:48:21 AM
Jewel is closer to home, and I needed milk. One of the few items that’s the same price as woodman’s. Slightly cheaper, even. Jewel has good deals on fruit and meats sometimes; and sometimes good deals on the app.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 16, 2026, 09:57:16 AM
You could probably get an Uber to get you all the way to Woodmans and back if it's too far away.
There's an app for that.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 16, 2026, 10:09:10 AM
You could probably get an Uber to get you all the way to Woodmans and back if it's too far away.
There's an app for that.

The Uber driver got deported
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 16, 2026, 10:36:58 AM
I have a vehicle, and I know an uber driver personally. It’s a time thing. I was in a hurry to get home and didn’t want to drive an extra 25 minutes (there and back) to spend the same amount on milk as I would at Jewel. Plus, I wanted a Boston crème. Jewel makes fresh ones.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 16, 2026, 10:59:45 AM
So you're saying the economy sucks but impulse buys and paying more for something at The Jewel is a reason to complain about prices ?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 16, 2026, 11:19:43 AM
So you're saying the economy sucks but impulse buys and paying more for something at The Jewel is a reason to complain about prices ?

Sounds like math ain’t mathing…

And values ain’t valuing…

And only fights the good fight if it’s convenient for him…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 16, 2026, 11:37:15 AM
So you're saying the economy sucks but impulse buys and paying more for something at The Jewel is a reason to complain about prices ?

I said I went there for milk. I also literally said milk is slightly less at Jewel than Woodman's. Can you comprehend what you read?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 16, 2026, 11:38:45 AM
So I should have burned more gas, and taken up 25 more minutes of my time for the privilege of paying 10 cents more for milk at Woodman's?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 16, 2026, 11:39:23 AM
Sounds like math ain’t mathing…

And values ain’t valuing…

And only fights the good fight if it’s convenient for him…

Apparently your reading comprehension is just as shitty.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 16, 2026, 11:42:32 AM
So you're saying the economy sucks but impulse buys and paying more for something at The Jewel is a reason to complain about prices ?

So a .99 cent Boston creme is too extravagant and an "impulse buy?" Man, times are even tougher than I thought.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 16, 2026, 11:48:38 AM
Here's what I bought at Jewel this morning:

-Two packs of thick cut bacon $3.99 each (on sale)
-Blackberries .99 cents (on sale)
-Two donuts one for me one for my son: .99 cents each
-Eggo Waffles (for son's school morning breakfasts): $1.99 (on sale)
-Half gallon milk $1.99

"Hypocrite! Go to Woodman's! Times are tough!"
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 16, 2026, 11:51:22 AM
You guys try way too hard at times.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 16, 2026, 12:00:14 PM
By the way, I did not buy the Starbucks K Cups. I’ve hardly bought any Starbucks K cups in the last year or so because they are too expensive. I buy Victor Allen’s mostly because they taste decent and are like generic price. Sometimes I get McDonald’s K cups when they have coupons. For a while I was getting McDonald’s 10 packs for $2.99. That’s like stealing.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 16, 2026, 12:02:26 PM
Unfortunately I’ll probably never again find a 72 pack of Pike Place at Woodman’s for $25 like I did about a year and a half ago. That was like hitting the lottery.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 16, 2026, 12:10:06 PM
Holy shit.

Mn and Judy have done the impossible. I am 100% on Tempo's side in a dumbass argument. I never thought we would see the day.

Well done, Mn and Judy. You fucking morons.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 16, 2026, 01:19:22 PM
Holy shit.

Mn and Judy have done the impossible. I am 100% on Tempo's side in a dumbass argument. I never thought we would see the day.

Well done, Mn and Judy. You fucking morons.

LOL
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 16, 2026, 09:14:15 PM
Sounds like math ain’t mathing…

Says the guy who took a second job washing dishes.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 17, 2026, 07:29:24 AM
Here's what I bought at Jewel this morning:

-Two packs of thick cut bacon $3.99 each (on sale)
-Blackberries .99 cents (on sale)
-Two donuts one for me one for my son: .99 cents each
-Eggo Waffles (for son's school morning breakfasts): $1.99 (on sale)
-Half gallon milk $1.99

"Hypocrite! Go to Woodman's! Times are tough!"
Thanks for letting us know about your trip to the grocery store and initially mentioning only 1 thing, the coffee that you didn't buy. 😂
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on February 17, 2026, 07:39:19 AM
No Binaca Blast?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 17, 2026, 09:35:17 AM
No Binaca Blast?

Had I seen some, maybe.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 17, 2026, 09:35:55 AM
Thanks for letting us know about your trip to the grocery store and initially mentioning only 1 thing, the coffee that you didn't buy.

I said I went for milk. I didn’t say anything about actually buying the coffee. I perused what other good values I could find. Unfortunately no 50% off salmon.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 17, 2026, 11:15:43 AM
I said I went for milk. I didn’t say anything about actually buying the coffee. I perused what other good values I could find. Unfortunately no 50% off salmon.
You didn't tell us that the coffee was $8.99 each if you bought 2.

(https://i.ibb.co/5hBqpRSR/Screenshot-20260217-111312-Outlook.jpg) (https://ibb.co/60g69WTW)
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 17, 2026, 02:33:24 PM
You didn't tell us that the coffee was $8.99 each if you bought 2.

(https://i.ibb.co/5hBqpRSR/Screenshot-20260217-111312-Outlook.jpg) (https://ibb.co/60g69WTW)

That’s called a sale. The regular price was $14.99
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 17, 2026, 02:35:03 PM
Now if it were permanently on sale, you’d have a point. It’s not. And also, what if you don’t want 2?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 17, 2026, 02:43:10 PM
It’s funny that Mn actually searched out Pike Place on the Jewel app. Does Jewel exist in MN?

I can answer that: they don’t.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 17, 2026, 09:39:26 PM
Now if it were permanently on sale, you’d have a point. It’s not. And also, what if you don’t want 2?
You should have bought 2.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 17, 2026, 10:03:17 PM
You should have bought 2.

Still overpriced.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 18, 2026, 06:53:55 AM
Still overpriced.
Buying 1 ? Yes.
Buying 2 ? Lol.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 18, 2026, 07:01:20 AM
Bezos would have bought 2 to save money. Especially since Amazon stock has recently lost billions   .
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 09:36:09 AM
Buying 1 ? Yes.
Buying 2 ? Lol.

I know my shopping habits are a hot button issue so I am sharing my purchases at Jewel yesterday. Again was pressed for time, so went to the Jewels instead of Woodman’s.

(https://i.postimg.cc/sxyB9N3r/IMG-5497.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Pp3rdKL3)
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 09:38:39 AM
Buying 1 ? Yes.
Buying 2 ? Lol.

It’s overpriced when I can get a decent tasting alternative for $4.49 at Woodman’s. Sometimes I get McDonald’s for as low as $2.99 when they have coupons/deals.

I like the Starbucks, but I’ll suffer through something else for half the price.

I got a hell of a deal on 5lbs of red potatoes yesterday.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 09:40:08 AM
Salmon “on sale (though marked up a bit)” and another 30% off the price on the tag. Not the 50% I like to find, but very reasonable none the less.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 09:41:47 AM
Bezos would have bought 2 to save money. Especially since Amazon stock has recently lost billions   .

Bezos would have bought Albertson’s (the company that owns Jewel). Then probably axed the coffee aisle.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 18, 2026, 11:26:45 AM
Bezos would have bought Albertson’s (the company that owns Jewel). Then probably axed the coffee aisle.

To appease Trump of course…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 11:33:07 AM
To appease Trump of course…

Or his ego.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 11:33:37 AM
It’ll be a lot worse when more of these data centers get completed.

https://x.com/mmpadellan/status/2023563540439654501?s=46&t=taZJ_d5ITWr6Hq3PUZDUiQ
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 18, 2026, 11:37:46 AM
Or his ego.

You have all the answers! You know how to spend others money better than them and even know the reasons why they spend it!

You’re like the guy who’s broke standing behind a person gambling telling them what to do to win big! 😂 🤯
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 11:54:45 AM
You have all the answers! You know how to spend others money better than them and even know the reasons why they spend it!

You’re like the guy who’s broke standing behind a person gambling telling them what to do to win big! 😂 🤯

You’re like the guy in the red MAGA hat that thinks billionaires like you.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 18, 2026, 12:31:40 PM
Probably could have gotten those green beans for $0.99/lb
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 12:46:59 PM
Probably could have gotten those green beans for $0.99/lb

$1.99 at Woodman’s the last few weeks.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 18, 2026, 01:08:55 PM
$1.99 at Woodman’s the last few weeks.

Damn Trump. Just can’t believe how terrible that is…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 01:09:47 PM
Damn Trump. Just can’t believe how terrible that is…

Sometimes it’s ok not to try.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 18, 2026, 01:26:14 PM
Sometimes it’s ok not to try.

Agreed. Like coming on here complaining/blaming Trump about how ridiculous prices are at the grocery store and then willfully choosing a more expensive option…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 18, 2026, 02:15:06 PM
Agreed. Like coming on here complaining/blaming Trump about how ridiculous prices are at the grocery store and then willfully choosing a more expensive option…

The price of Nvidia stock has gotten so ridiculous I retired.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on February 18, 2026, 02:31:40 PM
Congrats Murph, can Tempo have $10,000?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 02:45:07 PM
Agreed. Like coming on here complaining/blaming Trump about how ridiculous prices are at the grocery store and then willfully choosing a more expensive option…

Like I said, sometimes it’s ok not to try. Not every post is a great idea. No one here thinks what you just wrote is clever or insightful. Hell, it doesn’t even make sense.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 02:46:06 PM
Congrats Murph, can Tempo have $10,000?

I only want it if Custard gets some, too!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 02:47:08 PM
The price of Nvidia stock has gotten so ridiculous I retired.

First illion with a b wasn’t enough to retire on?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 02:48:24 PM
But with inflation, better make it $12,000.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 18, 2026, 02:54:15 PM
First illion with a b wasn’t enough to retire on?

Tempo doesn’t like you and thinks you shouldn’t exist…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 03:01:52 PM
Tempo doesn’t like you and thinks you shouldn’t exist…

Almost sure I never said that either. And I’m sure you won’t prove me wrong. You never ever do.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 18, 2026, 03:03:27 PM
Almost sure I never said that either. And I’m sure you won’t prove me wrong. You never ever do.

You literally have said you don’t think billionaires should exist…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 03:04:26 PM
You literally have said you don’t think billionaires should exist…

Prove it.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 03:06:29 PM
What I’m sure I’ve said is that I don’t have a problem with billionaires existing. What I’ve said is that billionaires should be taxed more, and that after 5, 10, 20 billion, how much more do you really need? That’s been my stance for quite a while
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 03:20:38 PM
If someone did take that position, though, I wouldn’t be super offended by it. It would be a bit too extreme for me,  though.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 18, 2026, 03:35:59 PM
Congrats Murph, can Tempo have $10,000?

Maybe he can give Bezos $100k a year to keep WaPo running as is!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 03:55:25 PM
Maybe he can give Bezos $100k a year to keep WaPo running as is!

Easily! Pony up, Murph! You can even skip my 12k!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 04:04:02 PM
Agreed. Like coming on here complaining/blaming Trump about how ridiculous prices are at the grocery store and then willfully choosing a more expensive option…

And here’s how bad your reading comprehension skills are; I literally just explained in detail how economical my successive trips to Jewel were (for a small handful of items). For one, the items I bought I couldn’t have gotten for less at Woodman’s. Secondly, Woodmans doesn’t have fresh Atlantic salmon, only frozen (and more expensive). But yeah, I should have driven an extra 25 minutes to save on 4 servings of green beans (which were actually cheaper at Jewel yesterday) FFS, am I really having to explain this?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 04:06:50 PM
I know my shopping habits are a hot button issue so I am sharing my purchases at Jewel yesterday. Again was pressed for time, so went to the Jewels instead of Woodman’s.

(https://i.postimg.cc/sxyB9N3r/IMG-5497.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Pp3rdKL3)

Tell me which item here wasn’t a good to great deal? The nearly 1.5 pounds of fresh salmon for $7.77, or were you not impressed with the 5ibs of red potatoes for .99 cents (the whole bag, not per pound)?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 18, 2026, 05:24:44 PM
Tell me which item here wasn’t a good to great deal? The nearly 1.5 pounds of fresh salmon for $7.77, or were you not impressed with the 5ibs of red potatoes for .99 cents (the whole bag, not per pound)?

So Trump’s economy is pretty good for grocery prices then, huh?!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 05:29:47 PM
LOL if you only shop for bargains. Good luck getting cheap prices on most items.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 05:36:07 PM
Argue with the data.

https://chicago.suntimes.com/the-watchdogs/2026/02/13/grocery-prices-chicago-climbed-inflation-trump-cpi-food
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 18, 2026, 05:48:13 PM
But you just completely contradicted yourself…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 05:49:28 PM
But you just completely contradicted yourself…

You think a deal on 5-6 items is enough to feed a family?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 05:51:04 PM
My son loves salmon, but I don’t think he wants it 7 nights in a row.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 05:53:17 PM
Again, you can find some pretty good deals on a handful of items if you look hard enough. If you go to Jewel and just pick whatever it is your family likes, you’re going to be paying out the nose. This isn’t a difficult concept.

Ice cream, meat, and coffee are up exponentially.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 18, 2026, 09:37:54 PM
So Trump’s economy is pretty good for grocery prices then, huh?!

I was making similar purchases at Berkot's while Biden was President. I just had to hunt for sales and clip coupons.

During the pandemic, I was actually getting some decent prices on Prime cuts of beef. I suspected this might have been because restaurant demand was down.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 18, 2026, 09:43:58 PM
Argue with the data.

https://chicago.suntimes.com/the-watchdogs/2026/02/13/grocery-prices-chicago-climbed-inflation-trump-cpi-food

Uh, we have been through this already.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 18, 2026, 10:38:17 PM
I was making similar purchases at Berkot's while Biden was President. I just had to hunt for sales and clip coupons.

During the pandemic, I was actually getting some decent prices on Prime cuts of beef. I suspected this might have been because restaurant demand was down.

So the sky isn’t falling like the media wants you to believe?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 18, 2026, 11:12:52 PM
So the sky isn’t falling like the media wants you to believe?

Things are never as bad or as good as they seem.

With groceries, you can always hunt for bargains. I do that anyway.

Not much I can do about coffee except suck it up and pay Trump's tariff
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 11:45:31 PM
Uh, we have been through this already.

Oh yeah, what did you conclude?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 18, 2026, 11:46:40 PM
Things are never as bad or as good as they seem.

With groceries, you can always hunt for bargains. I do that anyway.

Not much I can do about coffee except suck it up and pay Trump's tariff

If your store carries Victor Allen’s, it pretty decent for cheap coffee!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 19, 2026, 07:44:45 AM
Oh yeah, what did you conclude?

You can read it on this website
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 19, 2026, 07:46:40 AM
If your store carries Victor Allen’s, it pretty decent for cheap coffee!

I do remember this from when I did the Keurig thing. It isn't bad, and it is very cheap.

I went back to the conventional Folgers. Brew a pot and drink it over the course of a morning. Much cheaper that way, and I can make it the way I like it.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 19, 2026, 08:23:46 AM
You can read it on this website

Don’t need to. I just posted the data.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 19, 2026, 08:25:45 AM
I do remember this from when I did the Keurig thing. It isn't bad, and it is very cheap.

I went back to the conventional Folgers. Brew a pot and drink it over the course of a morning. Much cheaper that way, and I can make it the way I like it.

It’s probably Starbucks, just with a different name. LOL They do that kind of thing with wine.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 19, 2026, 09:39:12 AM
It’s probably Starbucks, just with a different name. LOL They do that kind of thing with wine.

Prove it…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 19, 2026, 09:43:36 AM
Prove it…

You really think you’re being clever, don’t you?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 19, 2026, 10:28:47 AM
If your store carries Victor Allen’s, it pretty decent for cheap coffee!

pro-tip - tap water is cheap.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 19, 2026, 12:22:50 PM
Don’t need to. I just posted the data.

Which had already been posted....and discussed.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 19, 2026, 04:00:11 PM
Which had already been posted....and discussed.

Not by me. I didn’t participate at that time.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 20, 2026, 10:11:58 AM
Time for everyone’s favorite segment! Scrutinize Tempo’s shopping list! Anything egregious? FTR I spent $137 at Woodman’s; this same list would be $237 at Jewel, no problem.

(https://i.postimg.cc/634vSVJh/IMG-5570.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/WFjzqk4D)

(https://i.postimg.cc/T2ryD3Rb/IMG-5571.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/xq1TrYNj)
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 20, 2026, 10:36:42 AM
Was Christina attractive?

Couple things...
Buddig meat is gross
3.99 for 12 rolls of asswipe? Wow. Is that the kind with wood chips in it?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 20, 2026, 12:12:27 PM
Kraft Mac & Cheese? WTF?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 20, 2026, 12:19:18 PM
Kraft Mac & Cheese? WTF?

You never had kids?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 20, 2026, 12:20:19 PM
You never had kids?

We weren't serving them that. There is an organic one out there that we served. Wasn't orange.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 20, 2026, 12:21:44 PM
LOL Look folks, we’ve got someone from the Epstein class among us!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 20, 2026, 12:22:13 PM
Was Christina attractive?

Couple things...
Buddig meat is gross
3.99 for 12 rolls of asswipe? Wow. Is that the kind with wood chips in it?

Not really.

$2.99 after the $1.00 off coupon. It’s pretty decent toilet paper. Basically indistinguishable from Angel Soft.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 20, 2026, 12:23:50 PM
Where's my refund from these illegal tariffs now that the fascist Supreme Court ruled?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 20, 2026, 12:24:50 PM
LOL Look folks, we’ve got someone from the Epstein class among us!

Who are the other idiots on The Twotter spewing this stupidity that this is bigger than Watergate? Would like to know who to ignore for being fucking retarded.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 20, 2026, 12:25:16 PM



Buddig meat is gross


A lot of it is, the “premium deli” turkey isn’t bad. Especially considering the price.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 20, 2026, 12:26:40 PM
A lot of it is, the “premium deli” turkey isn’t bad. Especially considering the price.

Salted process meat big in your house!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 20, 2026, 12:27:11 PM
11 Million Visitors Short: Inside America’s Continuing Tourism Slump
Last year, the U.S. was the only major destination to see a decline in international travelers. With increased scrutiny at the border, ICE violence and unpredictable policies, the new year isn’t looking better.

https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/20/travel/us-tourism-declines-eu-canada.html?unlocked_article_code=1.NlA.zcvu.DTFtdXL1nApp&smid=url-share

MAGA kicking ass!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 20, 2026, 12:28:50 PM
Salted process meat big in your house!

I’ve seen some of what you eat. Not sure you’re the one to be lecturing.

Premium deli oven roasted turkey is rated 4.5 on Instacart!

Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 20, 2026, 12:29:01 PM
Was better under Sleepy Joe!

https://www.cnbc.com/2026/02/20/pce-inflation-december-2025.html

Fourth-quarter U.S. GDP up just 1.4%, badly missing estimate; inflation firms at 3%

U.S. growth slowed more than expected near the end of 2025 as the government shutdown impacted spending and investment, while a key inflation metric showed high prices are still a factor for the economy, according to data released Friday.

Gross domestic product rose at an annualized rate of just 1.4%, according to the Commerce Department, well below the Dow Jones estimate for a 2.5% gain.

Consumer spending increased at a slower pace for the period while government spending tumbled sharply in a quarter marked by the record-length shutdown. The department estimated that the shutdown subtracted about 1 percentage point from growth, though it added that the exact impacts “cannot be quantified.”

For the full year in 2025, the U.S. economy grew at a 2.2% pace, down from the 2.8% increase in 2024.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 20, 2026, 12:31:05 PM
I’ve seen some of what you eat. Not sure you’re the one to be lecturing.

Premium deli over roasted turkey is rated 4.5 on Instacart!

LOL. Not Kraft Mac & Cheese and salted processed deli meat! You are the Bizzarro RFK, Jr.!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 20, 2026, 12:34:58 PM
Who are the other idiots on The Twotter spewing this stupidity that this is bigger than Watergate? Would like to know who to ignore for being fucking retarded.

I thought it to myself before hearing it, but I’ve heard a few people say it since. Maybe Massie was one of them? This is a global blackmail, money laundering ring featuring a large handful of the world’s richest and most powerful people. It involves spying, international intelligence agencies, pedophilia, torture, rape, and possibly murder. And the POTUS is doing everything he can to keep it from going public. It actually involves quite a bit more than that but I don’t have 45 minutes to post.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 20, 2026, 12:35:39 PM
It’s pretty effin’ huge.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 20, 2026, 12:36:16 PM
Just take the kid to the The Diner grill, 1635 Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60613, and give him this to eat!

The Slinger - Hash browns, 2 hamburger patties, cheese, grilled onion, eggs over easy covered with our homemade chili

$15.50

(https://i.postimg.cc/BXW7zrgm/5e05a6-cfc37e76049d4830a41fcd76d1e344db-mv2.avif) (https://postimg.cc/BXW7zrgm)
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 20, 2026, 12:37:38 PM
LOL. Not Kraft Mac & Cheese and salted processed deli meat! You are the Bizzarro RFK, Jr.!

Yeah, we know, you’re a real health nut. 95% of what I bought was perfectly healthy. You’re gonna find Kraft M&C and processed meat in almost every house in America. I knew you guys would find stuff to complain about, that’s why I posted it!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 20, 2026, 12:38:02 PM
Just take the kid to the The Diner grill, 1635 Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60613, and give him this to eat!

The Slinger - Hash browns, 2 hamburger patties, cheese, grilled onion, eggs over easy covered with our homemade chili

$15.50

(https://i.postimg.cc/BXW7zrgm/5e05a6-cfc37e76049d4830a41fcd76d1e344db-mv2.avif) (https://postimg.cc/BXW7zrgm)

Looks super healthy.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 20, 2026, 12:38:19 PM
It’s pretty effin’ huge.

The former Prince Andrew is a big get! A guy who literally has done nothing but sponge off the British people all his life....
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 20, 2026, 12:38:57 PM
Looks super healthy.

Ask for cheddar instead of the American Cheese food
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 20, 2026, 12:39:28 PM
What is this life changing organic Mac and cheese? I’ll look into it…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 20, 2026, 12:47:39 PM
The former Prince Andrew is a big get! A guy who literally has done nothing but sponge off the British people all his life....

Donald Trump
Elon Musk
Bill Gates
Ehud Barak
Bill Clinton
Leon Black
Noam Chomsky
Peter Thiel
RFK Jr
Melania Trump
Steve Bannon
Jay Z
Reid Hoffman
The Rothschilds
Les Wexner
-Numerous members of the current administration.
-Some EU figures have already resigned just for being mentioned.

There’s a lot more but again, I don’t have all afternoon. These are nobodies?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 20, 2026, 12:50:15 PM
It takes a pretty small level of analysis to think a very prominent member of the royal family being de-royaled and arrested is a “nothing burger.”
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 20, 2026, 01:18:07 PM
Just take the kid to the The Diner grill, 1635 Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60613, and give him this to eat!

The Slinger - Hash browns, 2 hamburger patties, cheese, grilled onion, eggs over easy covered with our homemade chili

$15.50

(https://i.postimg.cc/BXW7zrgm/5e05a6-cfc37e76049d4830a41fcd76d1e344db-mv2.avif) (https://postimg.cc/BXW7zrgm)

I would crush that
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 20, 2026, 02:06:53 PM
Donald Trump - not arrested
Elon Musk - not arrested
Bill Gates - not arrested
Ehud Barak - not arrested
Bill Clinton - not arrested
Leon Black - not arrested
Noam Chomsky - not arrested
Peter Thiel - not arrested
RFK Jr - not arrested
Melania Trump - not arrested
Steve Bannon - not arrested
Jay Z - not arrested
Reid Hoffman - not arrested
The Rothschilds - not arrested
Les Wexner - not arrested
-Numerous members of the current administration.  - not arrested
-Some EU figures have already resigned just for being mentioned.  - not arrested

There’s a lot more but again, I don’t have all afternoon. These are nobodies?

See above.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 20, 2026, 02:07:46 PM
It takes a pretty small level of analysis to think a very prominent member of the royal family being de-royaled and arrested is a “nothing burger.”

They all are nothing but sponges.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 20, 2026, 02:46:32 PM
They all are nothing but sponges.

Ok
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 20, 2026, 04:17:40 PM
They all are nothing but sponges.

Your wife is a sponge
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 20, 2026, 04:18:52 PM
We weren't serving them that. There is an organic one out there that we served. Wasn't orange.

Cook from scratch like a human being. It's not that hard, the food is better, and is better for you.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 20, 2026, 04:20:39 PM
11 Million Visitors Short: Inside America’s Continuing Tourism Slump
Last year, the U.S. was the only major destination to see a decline in international travelers. With increased scrutiny at the border, ICE violence and unpredictable policies, the new year isn’t looking better.

https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/20/travel/us-tourism-declines-eu-canada.html?unlocked_article_code=1.NlA.zcvu.DTFtdXL1nApp&smid=url-share

MAGA kicking ass!

FIFA gave him the peace prize because he managed to stop English Soccer hooligans from doing bad shit at the World Cup by convincing them not to come to the World Cup!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 20, 2026, 04:38:43 PM
Your wife is a sponge

Good luck with that!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 20, 2026, 04:40:19 PM
What is this life changing organic Mac and cheese? I’ll look into it…

Didn't say it was life changing. Think it is called Annie's. Comes in a purple box.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 20, 2026, 04:41:42 PM
look - you can't complain. Not only did Trump win affordability - the Economy cannot possibly get any better, really.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 20, 2026, 05:07:24 PM
See above.

LOL

The files just dropped. Could be a very long way to go on this.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 20, 2026, 05:08:11 PM
See above.

Ask yourself why none of them have been arrested (minus formerly Prince Andrew).
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 20, 2026, 06:25:06 PM
Ask yourself why none of them have been arrested (minus formerly Prince Andrew).

Because the file may contain hearsay  statements and allegations that were never invesigated?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 20, 2026, 07:49:45 PM
Because the file may contain hearsay  statements and allegations that were never invesigated?

From what I’m learning not a lot of questions were asked.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 20, 2026, 07:50:46 PM
Why wouldn’t they be investigated? Do we think Epstein was innocent?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 20, 2026, 08:36:55 PM
Why wouldn’t they be investigated? Do we think Epstein was innocent?

Ask all the law enforcement officers involved over the decades.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 21, 2026, 12:33:45 AM
Ask all the law enforcement officers involved over the decades.

LOLOLOLOLOLOL
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 21, 2026, 12:34:19 AM
There’s no way you’re really this naive; I mean it’s a bit, right?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 21, 2026, 06:37:59 AM
There’s no way you’re really this naive; I mean it’s a bit, right?

That would include all the DOJ lawyers. 
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 21, 2026, 06:49:08 AM
You asked a question and I answered it with where you can find the answer.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 21, 2026, 06:51:50 AM
All it takes is a Bill Barr or Pam Bondi to quash things. Bill Barr has put the lid on more executive branch scandal than probably any person alive.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 21, 2026, 07:00:30 AM
All it takes is a Bill Barr or Pam Bondi to quash things. Bill Barr has put the lid on more executive branch scandal than probably any person alive.

Don't you have to go farther back then those two?  Wasn't the first police report filed in the 90s? He was initially convicted in 2008 when Bush was President!? What did the Clinton, Bush, Obama DOJs do?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 21, 2026, 07:33:31 AM
I’m not saying it’s limited to those two; but there’s a reason none of them did anything.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 21, 2026, 08:33:06 AM
I’m not saying it’s limited to those two; but there’s a reason none of them did anything.

You may be on to something here. Call The Hague! Where's Woodward?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 10:15:44 AM
What would workers make if their salaries had kept up with CEOs?

https://x.com/i/status/2024590298362286110
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 23, 2026, 01:40:27 PM
Dow hit 50k today

My 401K and other investments absolutely killed it overall in 2025 and Jan 26


48,785
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 23, 2026, 02:40:56 PM
What would workers make if their salaries had kept up with CEOs?

https://x.com/i/status/2024590298362286110

This comment kind of summarizes Trumpism:

'What if politicians hadn't sent American manufacturing  jobs  to China? What if politicians enforced immigration laws and didn't let millions of illegals lower wages for everyone here legally?'

btw, back in the day, s lot of Democrats were saying the same sort of things, but blamed Reagan - Bush Republicans for exporting jobs.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 23, 2026, 03:21:18 PM
This comment kind of summarizes Trumpism:

'What if politicians hadn't sent American manufacturing  jobs  to China? What if politicians enforced immigration laws and didn't let millions of illegals lower wages for everyone here legally?'

btw, back in the day, s lot of Democrats were saying the same sort of things, but blamed Reagan - Bush Republicans for exporting jobs.

Tempo wasn't paying attention back then.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on February 23, 2026, 03:54:56 PM
48,785

You and many others love it when things go bad for America so you can be “right” about Trump
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on February 23, 2026, 03:57:57 PM
Looks like Tempo already found my leaked photos
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 04:12:03 PM
Looks like Tempo already found my leaked photos

They were in the Epstein Files.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 04:13:34 PM
Tempo wasn't paying attention back then.

That’s a weird comment. I was absolutely paying attention back then.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 23, 2026, 05:13:12 PM
That’s a weird comment. I was absolutely paying attention back then.

You admitted you were not paying attention.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 05:44:24 PM
b
You admitted you were not paying attention.

You literally have zero reading comprehension. I said I wasn’t paying that close attention the last few years, mostly during the Biden administration. The U.S. started leaking jobs decades before that.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 05:49:27 PM
I largely took a break from politics after the Trump administration. I followed, just not super closely and wasn’t getting into nearly as many political conversations.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 23, 2026, 08:24:14 PM
You literally have zero reading comprehension. I said I wasn’t paying that close attention the last few years, mostly during the Biden administration. The U.S. started leaking jobs decades before that.

You went further back than that. You also admitted to being a Republican.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 08:27:35 PM
You went further back than that.

Prove it.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 08:34:07 PM
You went further back than that. You also admitted to being a Republican.

I was actually more of a conservative than a Republican. I supported Ross Perot and Pat Buchanan in the 90s. I voted mostly Republican in the early aughts after The Reform Party pretty much died off. I started to turn left in in my politics around 2002-2003 (I was ok with going into Afghanistan, I opposed The Iraq War). John Kerry was the first Democrat I supported for President. I was turned into a populist by AM talk radio in the mid 90s.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 08:39:48 PM
Though I never really listened to Rush. I guess I was more of a conservative leaning populist. I was turned into a conspiracy theorist by Chuck Harder who had a program called “For the People.” Although I related to different types of guests. He had left and right guests on. Ralph Nader was a regular guest and I always looked forward to Ralph’s segments. And Pat Choate, Perot’s ‘96 running mate was a regular guest to. I probably got a little more conservative for a few years when Pat Buchanan was the figurehead of the party.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 08:42:45 PM
I was very anti-free trade then. It was my biggest issue along with campaign finance reform, which remains my biggest issue today (along with Medicare for All).
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 23, 2026, 08:46:17 PM
It is always the converts who are the most zealous....
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 08:51:31 PM
LOL
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 08:51:56 PM
And it’s always the ones who never change who are the least curious.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 08:52:43 PM
It is always the converts who are the most zealous....

I’d be willing to bet a lot of pastors and rabbis would prove that comment wrong.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 23, 2026, 08:54:09 PM
And it’s always the ones who never change who are the least curious.

That isn't a saying....
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 08:55:39 PM
That isn't a saying....

LOL
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 23, 2026, 08:55:52 PM
I’d be willing to bet a lot of pastors and rabbis would prove that comment wrong.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zeal_of_the_convert
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 08:56:33 PM
As I said, uncurious. To the point where he needs a “saying” to prove a point.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 23, 2026, 08:56:41 PM
Down goes Tempo! Down goes Tempo!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 08:57:44 PM
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zeal_of_the_convert

Got one a little more recent. There are televangelists and rabbis that have been spewing hate and nonsense their entire lives.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 08:58:36 PM
Down goes Tempo! Down goes Tempo!

Only in your uncurious brain.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 23, 2026, 08:58:52 PM
Got one a little more recent. There are televangelists and rabbis that have been spewing hate and nonsense their entire lives.

Not in a zealous manner?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 23, 2026, 08:59:29 PM
Only in your uncurious brain.

Let me know when you find the Wikipedia page about your purported saying.....
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 23, 2026, 09:00:47 PM
(https://i.postimg.cc/1f2CSP3L/boom-dynamite.gif) (https://postimg.cc/1f2CSP3L)
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 09:00:51 PM
I didn’t say it because I felt like I needed a canned response. It’s true. Those who don’t evolve are probably not that smart and uncurious.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 09:01:54 PM
And you’re operating under the strawman that I’m some sort of super radical far far left progressive. I’m not. I’ve probably toned it down from 5-10 years ago.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 09:02:18 PM
(https://i.postimg.cc/1f2CSP3L/boom-dynamite.gif) (https://postimg.cc/1f2CSP3L)

Boom goes the dipshit.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 23, 2026, 09:02:33 PM
I didn’t say it because I felt like I needed a canned response. It’s true. Those who don’t evolve are probably not that smart and uncurious.

LOL. So the dynamite still goes Boom!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 23, 2026, 09:03:03 PM
Boom goes the dipshit.

Taking the L in a constructive manner as usual.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 09:03:08 PM
When you stop dealing in strawman we can have an honest discussion. I anticipate that we will never have an honest discussion.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 09:03:52 PM
Taking the L in a constructive manner as usual.

Again, you’re operating under false pretenses. I’m not not an extremist.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 09:05:03 PM
Tax billionaires at a higher rate isn’t an extremist opinion.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 23, 2026, 09:06:07 PM
And you’re operating under the strawman that I’m some sort of super radical far far left progressive. I’m not. I’ve probably toned it down from 5-10 years ago.

(https://i.postimg.cc/GB7s03c4/sure-air-quotes.gif) (https://postimg.cc/GB7s03c4)
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 23, 2026, 09:07:42 PM
Tax billionaires at a higher rate isn’t an extremist opinion.

Didn't you say that no one should be a billionaire? Or was that something Judge Judy merely ascribed to you?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 09:12:47 PM
(https://i.postimg.cc/GB7s03c4/sure-air-quotes.gif) (https://postimg.cc/GB7s03c4)

(https://i.postimg.cc/284Z4Cdc/IMG-5649.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 09:17:10 PM
If you want something closer to an extremist, you’re probably looking for my friend Emily. She’s what some on the right might call a “self-hating Jew,” and we constantly argue because I have to explain to her that not all cops are bastards, and that Russia aren’t the good guys in the war in Ukraine (Ukraine has a Nazi problem!). She spends all of her time attacking Democrats and none of it attacking Republicans (even though she’s a leftist). I also had to explain to her that Roger Waters (with his $400 million net worth) isn’t actually a “tankie.”
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 09:20:02 PM
Didn't you say that no one should be a billionaire? Or was that something Judge Judy merely ascribed to you?

I don’t believe I’ve said that. I know for a fact I’ve said that 5-10 billion (20 max) should be plenty for anyone.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 23, 2026, 09:21:20 PM
I’m ok with somone being a billionaire, but after 10 billion it’s pretty redundant. No one needs 100, 300, or 700 billion dollars. On paper, or otherwise.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 23, 2026, 11:08:10 PM
You and many others love it when things go bad for America so you can be “right” about Trump

Nope. I’m just hoping you’ll wake up and help us replace him ASAP
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 23, 2026, 11:08:59 PM
They were in the Epstein Files.

Custard contacted Epstein and Epstein said “dude you’re too gross for even me”
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 24, 2026, 07:05:14 AM
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zeal_of_the_convert

Here’s a pastor saying “if a girl dresses a certain way, she deserves to get raped (a man’s a man!).” He doesn’t seem like a “convert” to me.

https://x.com/notavgliberal/status/2026048821906522452?s=46&t=taZJ_d5ITWr6Hq3PUZDUiQ
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 24, 2026, 01:03:50 PM
Here’s a pastor saying “if a girl dresses a certain way, she deserves to get raped (a man’s a man!).” He doesn’t seem like a “convert” to me.

https://x.com/notavgliberal/status/2026048821906522452?s=46&t=taZJ_d5ITWr6Hq3PUZDUiQ

Did he convert from something else to be a pastor?

Are you sure you know what the word "convert" means?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 24, 2026, 02:12:02 PM
Did he convert from something else to be a pastor?

Are you sure you know what the word "convert" means?

Are you sure you know what the word “most” means?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 24, 2026, 02:44:24 PM
Are you sure you know what the word “most” means?

I do. I do not know if you know what the word "convert" actually means. Did the pastor in question "convert"? If not, he may not be as zealous as you think he should be.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 24, 2026, 03:21:17 PM
I do. I do not know if you know what the word "convert" actually means. Did the pastor in question "convert"? If not, he may not be as zealous as you think he should be.

He sounds pretty zealous to me. Your “logic” is pretty flimsy.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 24, 2026, 03:22:01 PM
And I doubt he’s a “convert,” which is the point.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 24, 2026, 04:46:19 PM
He sounds pretty zealous to me. Your “logic” is pretty flimsy.

Pastor saying it is ok to rape someone based on how they are dressed is a zealous person? Ok.....
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on February 24, 2026, 06:14:03 PM
Take it to the overzealous and incurious thread!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 24, 2026, 07:01:02 PM
Pastor saying it is ok to rape someone based on how they are dressed is a zealous person? Ok.....

You don’t consider a “pastor” using an extreme example like this zealotry? I would.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 24, 2026, 07:01:56 PM
Pastor saying it is ok to rape someone based on how they are dressed is a zealous person? Ok.....

It’s only zealotry when Muslims do it?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 24, 2026, 07:32:21 PM
These kinds of stories just might hurt tourism and the trade deficit.

Trump's solution to the trade deficit is to impose a world wide 15% section 122 "import tax" [tariff]


Quote
BREAKING: WTF? Trump's ICE goons shackled and threw a British grandma on a tourist visa in their gulag for SIX WEEKS!

Karen Newton, a 65-year-old grandmother from Hertfordshire, England with a clean record and a valid B2 tourist visa, thought she was heading for a dream two-month road trip through four Western states and Canada with her husband Bill.

What she got instead was a nightmare: six weeks in ICE detention after being shackled, sleeping on the floor, and locked in a windowless cell with no end date in sight.

The ordeal began September 26, 2025, when the couple was turned back at the Canadian border due to Bill’s expired visa. U.S. officials at the Montana crossing decided Karen was “guilty by association” for helping him pack – a ridiculous stretch – which nonetheless led to both being handcuffed, waist-chained, and ankle-shackled.

Karen spent three days on mats under foil blankets at Sweetgrass border station, then endured a 12-hour overnight van ride to the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma, Washington.

“It’s called a detention facility, but it’s really a prison,” she said. Lights always on, no windows, guards everywhere, everything bolted down. She slept on the floor for a month because she was assigned a top bunk she couldn’t climb up to.

She lost all sense of time, suffered pain and constipation from fear of using watched toilets, and watched other detainees – many long-term U.S. residents with families – cry over separations from children.

Guards repeatedly told Karen ICE agents get bonuses per detention. She believes the quotas and incentives drove the cruelty: “There is all the incentive in the world to find a reason – any reason – not to let someone go.”

She eventually signed for “self-removal” under Project Homecoming to get out faster, waiving rights to a judge and accepting a potential 10-year U.S. ban.

Karen’s story isn’t isolated. Since Trump’s inauguration, international travelers with valid documents have been swept up in ICE’s aggressive enforcement. The message is chilling: if it can happen to a white, middle-aged British grandmother on a holiday, it can happen to anyone. No criminal record, no illegal entry, no threat – just a system incentivized to detain first and ask questions never.

Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 24, 2026, 07:52:50 PM
Don’t go to the US – not with Trump in charge’: the UK tourist with a valid visa detained by ICE for six weeks

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/21/karen-newton-valid-visa-detained-ice
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 24, 2026, 08:06:23 PM
These kinds of stories just might hurt tourism and the trade deficit.

Trump's solution to the trade deficit is to impose a world wide 15% section 122 "import tax" [tariff]



Nothing about Canada not letting the British woman enter Canada ?

Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 24, 2026, 08:06:59 PM
You don’t consider a “pastor” using an extreme example like this zealotry? I would.

No. Would call it a bastardization
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 24, 2026, 08:11:13 PM
Nothing about Canada not letting the British woman enter Canada ?

And, yes, I would guess the Guardian wrote this story with the intent to damage tourism.

LOL - Canada is a member of the British Commonwealth.

But I like the way you're thinking, maybe we can keep you from showing up to Illinois home games based on non-Illinois citizenship. You're a black cat.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 24, 2026, 08:29:56 PM
I thought Terry Hawthorne was The Black Cat
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 24, 2026, 08:33:17 PM
Nothing about Canada not letting the British woman enter Canada ?

That didn't happen..

"When they crossed the border, Canadian officials told them they didn’t have the correct paperwork to bring the car with them. They were turned back to Montana on the American side"
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 24, 2026, 08:41:48 PM
the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, did not save the $2 trillion in waste promised as of early 2026.

Based on reports, the initiative fell significantly short of that goal, with claimed savings often being a small fraction of the promise, and in some cases, the initiatives actually resulted in net costs.

--Savings vs. Promises: While Elon Musk initially promised $2 trillion in cuts, this figure was later reduced to $1 trillion and subsequently to $150 billion. By April 2025, reports indicated actual savings were far lower than even the revised goals, with one analysis showing only about $2 billion in real, verified cuts out of over $50 billion claimed at the time.

--Inflated Claims and Errors: Analyses by the New York Times and others found that many of DOGE’s "savings" claims were inflated, inaccurate, or double-counted, with one report stating that in August 2025, DOGE overstated the savings of its largest cuts by 97%.

--Actual Costs: Studies suggested that DOGE's actions, including mass firings and disruptions, actually cost taxpayers money—estimated at $135 billion due to paid leave for federal workers, lost productivity, and costs of rehiring, without including potential revenue losses from IRS cuts.

--Workforce Reductions: DOGE was successful in cutting the federal workforce, reducing it by over 280,000 employees, which created significant disruptions in government services.

Experts noted that achieving $2 trillion in cuts was considered nearly impossible without touching major, protected programs like Social Security and Medicare.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 24, 2026, 10:09:58 PM
the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, did not save the $2 trillion in waste promised as of early 2026.

Based on reports, the initiative fell significantly short of that goal, with claimed savings often being a small fraction of the promise, and in some cases, the initiatives actually resulted in net costs.

--Savings vs. Promises: While Elon Musk initially promised $2 trillion in cuts, this figure was later reduced to $1 trillion and subsequently to $150 billion. By April 2025, reports indicated actual savings were far lower than even the revised goals, with one analysis showing only about $2 billion in real, verified cuts out of over $50 billion claimed at the time.

--Inflated Claims and Errors: Analyses by the New York Times and others found that many of DOGE’s "savings" claims were inflated, inaccurate, or double-counted, with one report stating that in August 2025, DOGE overstated the savings of its largest cuts by 97%.

--Actual Costs: Studies suggested that DOGE's actions, including mass firings and disruptions, actually cost taxpayers money—estimated at $135 billion due to paid leave for federal workers, lost productivity, and costs of rehiring, without including potential revenue losses from IRS cuts.

--Workforce Reductions: DOGE was successful in cutting the federal workforce, reducing it by over 280,000 employees, which created significant disruptions in government services.

Experts noted that achieving $2 trillion in cuts was considered nearly impossible without touching major, protected programs like Social Security and Medicare.

Wait, so all the outrage from the left and on here was unwarranted?! The sky wasn’t falling? Or does what you type above upset you? It’s like damned if you do and damned if you don’t…

Still not sure what you’re trying to imply above. You’d be upset if it was more but now you’re upset that it wasn’t enough 😂 can’t make this shit up…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 24, 2026, 10:44:16 PM
Wait, so all the outrage from the left and on here was unwarranted?! The sky wasn’t falling? Or does what you type above upset you? It’s like damned if you do and damned if you don’t…

Still not sure what you’re trying to imply above. You’d be upset if it was more but now you’re upset that it wasn’t enough 😂 can’t make this shit up…

What? The Department of Government Efficiency wound up fucking up the government at a net cost of $125 billion and I am supposed to be pleased because I was proven right?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on February 24, 2026, 11:20:24 PM
Judging by the amount of people on Maui spending money on really expensive things maybe the economy is okay after all!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 25, 2026, 12:46:41 AM
That didn't happen..

"When they crossed the border, Canadian officials told them they didn’t have the correct paperwork to bring the car with them. They were turned back to Montana on the American side"

It was the car's fault. 😂😂😂😂😂😂

Now tell the rest of the story.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 25, 2026, 01:13:59 AM
It was the car's fault. 😂😂😂😂😂😂

Now tell the rest of the story.

We lack sufficient information to know what documentation they lacked to drive the car in Canada.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 25, 2026, 01:19:03 AM
We lack sufficient information to know what documentation they lacked to drive the car in Canada.
How about when they turned around and tried to get thru U.S. Border Patrol and both had prior immigration issues ?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 25, 2026, 01:39:49 AM
How about when they turned around and tried to get thru U.S. Border Patrol and both had prior immigration issues ?

You mean when they were sent back?

Immigration law is confusing.

Wife has overstayed her tourist visa. She paid the penalty and was 100% lawfully present.

Husband had been here 20 years on a work visa?. He kept getting the run around on permanent resident status and finally gave up? I guess he technically overstayed?

They were planning to visit Canada and then go home.

They had subsequently accepted the offer to self deport

Why were they detained without arrest for 6 weeks in a hell hole?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 25, 2026, 03:22:03 AM
No. Would call it a bastardization

Convenient
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 25, 2026, 03:58:55 AM
Judging by the amount of people on Maui spending money on really expensive things maybe the economy is okay after all!

Conclusion: “People with money are doing fine!”
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 25, 2026, 07:23:07 AM
Convenient

Yet true
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 25, 2026, 07:26:59 AM
You mean when they were sent back?

Immigration law is confusing.

Wife has overstayed her tourist visa. She paid the penalty and was 100% lawfully present.

Husband had been here 20 years on a work visa?. He kept getting the run around on permanent resident status and finally gave up? I guess he technically overstayed?

They were planning to visit Canada and then go home.

They had subsequently accepted the offer to self deport

Why were they detained without arrest for 6 weeks in a hell hole?

I didn't read this story and really didn't give a crap about people getting caught at the actual border who were here illegally, but it sure sounds like there 2 fucked up and even Canada would not let them in. 6 weeks in a hell hole since they failed to follow the law? Adios, illegals.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 25, 2026, 07:59:47 AM
Yet true

Bullshit
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 25, 2026, 08:01:57 AM
Bullshit

There is a reason there is a saying about converts and zealotry. You are a prime example.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 25, 2026, 08:05:46 AM
There is a reason there is a saying about converts and zealotry. You are a prime example.

Bullshit.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 25, 2026, 08:08:52 AM
Bullshit.

You are the Duke of New York when jt comes to zealotry as a convert. A number 1.

Nichi and you can lecture people who actually have to take public transit on tolerating criminals and the crazies from your safe, lilly white suburbs.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 25, 2026, 08:12:02 AM
You are the Duke of New York when jt comes to zealotry as a convert. A number 1.

Nichi and you can lecture people who actually have to take public transit on tolerating criminals and the crazies from your safe, lilly white suburbs.

Bullshit.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 25, 2026, 08:13:33 AM
Bullshit.

He types "Bullshit" from his lilly white suburb.... Not ironic in the least
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 25, 2026, 10:05:29 AM
You mean when they were sent back?

Immigration law is confusing.

Wife has overstayed her tourist visa. She paid the penalty and was 100% lawfully present.

Husband had been here 20 years on a work visa?. He kept getting the run around on permanent resident status and finally gave up? I guess he technically overstayed?

They were planning to visit Canada and then go home.

They had subsequently accepted the offer to self deport

Why were they detained without arrest for 6 weeks in a hell hole?
" I guess he technically overstayed?"

The shortened version would be that 'he overstayed'.
The Guardian story didn't mention the prior immigration issues for either. And those issues were why they were detained.

If they hadn't attempted to enter Canada, there would have been no faux outrage story.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 25, 2026, 03:19:46 PM
Judging by the amount of people on Maui spending money on really expensive things maybe the economy is okay after all!

Maui is cheap.

Unless you're from Alabama I guess.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 25, 2026, 03:43:03 PM
Maui is cheap.

Unless you're from Alabama I guess.

He's a Tennessee fatass. So, close enough
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 25, 2026, 04:04:21 PM
He's a Tennessee fatass. So, close enough
You seen one backwards Southern State, you seen em all.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 25, 2026, 11:54:56 PM
I didn't read this story
and really didn't give a crap about people getting caught at the actual border who were here illegally, but it sure sounds like there 2 fucked up and even Canada would not let them in. 6 weeks in a hell hole since they failed to follow the law? Adios, illegals.

Obviously
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 26, 2026, 07:35:38 AM
Obviously

I git the part that can be summarized as "Adios, illegals! Next time respect US law.."
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 26, 2026, 08:12:53 AM
I git the part that can be summarized as "Adios, illegals! Next time respect US law.."

Why can’t corporations respect U.S. law?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on February 26, 2026, 09:48:42 AM
He's a Tennessee fatass. So, close enough

Quote
Nashville (a major city with over 700,000 residents in the metro area) is widely regarded as a dynamic, fast-growing destination known for its music scene, Southern hospitality, job market, nightlife, food, and outdoor access nearby. It’s frequently ranked in “best places to live” lists for its energy, affordability relative to coastal cities, and appeal to young professionals, families, and transplants.

In contrast, Washington, IL is a small town (population around 16,000–18,000) in Tazewell County near Peoria—quiet, suburban/rural, with lower-key living, far fewer amenities, cultural options, dining, events, or job diversity.

Desirability is subjective (e.g., some prioritize quiet family life over urban buzz), but based on migration trends, rankings, and discussions, Nashville attracts far more people and positive attention as a desirable spot.

On obesity (“fat people” rates):
Washington, IL (and its surrounding area in Tazewell County) has a higher rate of obesity than Nashville.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 26, 2026, 10:06:30 AM
Why can’t corporations respect U.S. law?

As I have said previously, crack down on the employers and you solve a large chunck of the problem. That being said, most HR people can't identify fake documents and you have states, like Illinois, making it difficult to use E-Verify. So quite a few are talking out of both sides when they bitch about businesses hiring illegals while complaining about E-Verify.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 26, 2026, 10:22:52 AM
Why can’t corporations respect U.S. law?

Whataboutism, strawman, and moving the goalposts…

That’s not what is being discussed. You’re deflecting…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on February 26, 2026, 10:30:04 AM


Well, fatass, you're not doing much to bring Nashville's average down
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 26, 2026, 10:46:22 AM
Whataboutism, strawman, and moving the goalposts…

That’s not what is being discussed. You’re deflecting…

Do you purposefully play dumb?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 26, 2026, 10:48:56 AM
As I have said previously, crack down on the employers and you solve a large chunck of the problem. That being said, most HR people can't identify fake documents and you have states, like Illinois, making it difficult to use E-Verify. So quite a few are talking out of both sides when they bitch about businesses hiring illegals while complaining about E-Verify.

I’ve been the one saying that. And take it from me, someone who has hired “illegals;” the people hiring know that they aren’t legal, and the directive FROM CORPORATE is to hire these people because they work the cheapest.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 26, 2026, 11:08:44 AM
I’ve been the one saying that. And take it from me, someone who has hired “illegals;” the people hiring know that they aren’t legal, and the directive FROM CORPORATE is to hire these people because they work the cheapest.

I'm glad you can speak for all the warehouses along I-55 in Bolingbrook, Channahan, Joliet, etc.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 26, 2026, 11:22:29 AM
They know.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 26, 2026, 11:31:25 AM
I’ve been the one saying that. And take it from me, someone who has hired “illegals;” the people hiring know that they aren’t legal, and the directive FROM CORPORATE is to hire these people because they work the cheapest.
Who hired the "illegals" ? You ? Or corporate ?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 26, 2026, 11:31:55 AM
Who hired the "illegals" ? You ? Or corporate ?

Your mom.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 26, 2026, 11:35:15 AM
Your mom.
That's not true, but you're deviating.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 26, 2026, 12:13:19 PM
That's not true, but you're deviating.

I think I explained it pretty clearly. EVERYONE did it. And EVERYONE knew about it. Including your mom.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 26, 2026, 12:14:39 PM
As long as their paperwork was approved, it was all systems go.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 26, 2026, 12:35:42 PM
I think I explained it pretty clearly. EVERYONE did it. And EVERYONE knew about it. Including your mom.
You didn't explain why corporate wasn't respecting the law when you, not corporate, did the hiring of the illegals.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 26, 2026, 12:39:27 PM
As long as their paperwork was approved, it was all systems go.
Why didn't you just restrict your hiring to US citizens looking for work rather than blaming corporations for not respecting the law ?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 26, 2026, 12:56:23 PM
Tempo is going to get arrested by ICE
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 26, 2026, 01:16:36 PM
Tempo is going to get arrested by ICE

😂🤣
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 26, 2026, 01:30:12 PM
On obesity (“fat people” rates):
Washington, IL (and its surrounding area in Tazewell County) has a higher rate of obesity than Nashville.

Approximately 63%–68% of adults in Nashville (Davidson County) are considered overweight or obese. Data indicates a 30% adult obesity rate, which is higher than peer cities like Austin and Charlotte.
https://61five.com/nashville-obesity-epidemic/#:~:text=Nashville's%20Obesity%20Epidemic,Nashville%20are%20classified%20as%20obese.

San Francisco has one of the lowest adult obesity rates in the United States, frequently ranked as the healthiest or second-healthiest city in the nation. Recent data indicates the city's adult obesity rate is approximately 14.8% to 18%, significantly lower than many other U.S. cities
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 26, 2026, 01:32:20 PM
I'm glad you can speak for all the warehouses along I-55 in Bolingbrook, Channahan, Joliet, etc.

The ruse here - is the company hires a contractor, the contractor hires the illegals. Labor Laundering.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 26, 2026, 01:39:28 PM
Tempo is going to get arrested by ICE
Can you recommend an attorney well versed in employment law for him ?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 26, 2026, 02:48:10 PM
I git the part that can be summarized as "Adios, illegals! Next time respect US law.."

You must have missed the part where they were planning to visit Canada for two weeks, then return home to UK. They weren't trying to stay here.

Wife's tourist visa was valid.

Husband overstayed his work visa 20 years. How does that happen?

They lacked documents needed to drive the car in Canada.

They offered to self deport. Even offered to waive the incentives.

Never did get their luggage back
.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 26, 2026, 03:04:59 PM
The open border administration approved her visa after she had overstayed a previous visa by almost 4 years while visiting her husband whio was overstaying his visa by 20 years.

I have no idea why they had a problem trying to get back into the US. 😂😂

The Brit that interviewed her, in Britain, should have asked if they "planned" to not overstay their previous visas. Lol

The Brit could also have asked what the paperwork issues were that prevented a Brit from entering Canada.
Maybe the vehicle was car jacked.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on February 26, 2026, 03:10:57 PM
The open border administration approved her visa after she had overstayed a previous visa by almost 4 years while visiting her husband whio was overstaying his visa by 20 years.

I have no idea why they had a problem trying to get back into the US. 😂😂
The Brit that interviewed her, in Britain, should have asked if they "planned" to not overstay their previous visas. Lol

But they were will to self-deport!!! LOL except they didn’t for over 20 years…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 26, 2026, 05:41:25 PM
AI says MsBrit, who had already overstayed a previous visa by 4 years, came to the US to see her husband who was still in the US and enjoying his 20 year stay of being an illegal so they could travel around the countryside.
How sweet. She hadn't seen him in years.

When MrBrit got caught in Montana being a 20 year illegal we're told that MrBrit and MsBrit "planned" on returning to England.
They got to spend 6 weeks in detention instead of being on their 'planned' flight. 😥
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 26, 2026, 06:27:45 PM
AI says MsBrit, who had already overstayed a previous visa by 4 years, came to the US to see her husband who was still in the US and enjoying his 20 year stay of being an illegal so they could travel around the countryside.
How sweet. She hadn't seen him in years.

When MrBrit got caught in Montana being a 20 year illegal we're told that MrBrit and MsBrit "planned" on returning to England.
They got to spend 6 weeks in detention instead of being on their 'planned' flight. 😥

The punishment for overstaying is removal. Why detain them for 6 weeks when they were already self deporting?

Does ICE get paid incentives?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 26, 2026, 06:32:02 PM
But they were will to self-deport!!! LOL except they didn’t for over 20 years…

The husband was reportedly working here and paying taxes for 20 years on an expired EB-3 visa.

Do you know what self deport means?.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on February 26, 2026, 07:36:28 PM
Approximately 63%–68% of adults in Nashville (Davidson County) are considered overweight or obese. Data indicates a 30% adult obesity rate, which is higher than peer cities like Austin and Charlotte.
https://61five.com/nashville-obesity-epidemic/#:~:text=Nashville's%20Obesity%20Epidemic,Nashville%20are%20classified%20as%20obese.

San Francisco has one of the lowest adult obesity rates in the United States, frequently ranked as the healthiest or second-healthiest city in the nation. Recent data indicates the city's adult obesity rate is approximately 14.8% to 18%, significantly lower than many other U.S. cities

Of course they’re skinny, they all have AIDS
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 26, 2026, 08:11:53 PM
The husband was reportedly working here and paying taxes for 20 years on an expired EB-3 visa.

Do you know what self deport means?.
Why don't you respect a country's laws and borders ? Mr and Ms Brit don't appear to but Canada sure does.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 26, 2026, 08:14:02 PM
The punishment for overstaying is removal. Why detain them for 6 weeks when they were already self deporting?

Does ICE get paid incentives?
A great concept. Break the laws of a country and offer your own penalty for doing it. smh
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 26, 2026, 08:32:05 PM
You can get yours for only $20

https://x.com/dc_draino/status/2027076329905050085?s=42
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 26, 2026, 09:06:47 PM
You didn't explain why corporate wasn't respecting the law when you, not corporate, did the hiring of the illegals.

You’ve never explained adequately why you’re a disingenuous dipshit. So we’re even, I guess.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 26, 2026, 09:08:26 PM
The punishment for overstaying is removal. Why detain them for 6 weeks when they were already self deporting?

Does ICE get paid incentives?

It’s a huge racket that is going to net Donald and friends billions.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 26, 2026, 09:23:14 PM
You’ve never explained adequately why you’re a disingenuous dipshit. So we’re even, I guess.
I guess, lol
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 26, 2026, 09:44:45 PM
A great concept. Break the laws of a country and offer your own penalty for doing it. smh

I will type more slowly..

The penalty for unlawful presence is removal. Self deportation is an available option. There are even incentives -- free tickets and cash. This saves both sides time and money

They were held 6 weeks and finally allowed to self deport..what was the point of holding them 6 weeks?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 26, 2026, 09:49:02 PM
I will type more slowly..

The penalty for unlawful presence is removal. Self deportation is an available option. There are even incentives -- free tickets and cash. This saves both sides time and money

They were held 6 weeks and finally allowed to self deport..what was the point of holding them 6 weeks?
He didn't self deport before he got caught being in the country illegally for 20 years.
The offer was out before MsBrit came over and before he got caught.
FAFO
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 26, 2026, 09:52:37 PM

The Brit could also have asked what the paperwork issues were that prevented a Brit from entering Canada.
Maybe the vehicle was car jacked.

To drive a car across the Canadian border, you need a valid passport (or NEXUS/enhanced driver’s license), driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for visits under 180 days. If renting, bring the rental agreement. Pets require proof of rabies vaccination.

Essential Documents for Border Crossing:

-For Persons (Citizenship/ID): Valid Passport, Passport Card, Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL), or Trusted Traveler Card (NEXUS). Children under 16 may use a birth certificate.

For the Vehicle:
-Registration: Original or copy of the vehicle registration.

-Insurance: Proof of insurance, preferably valid in both countries.

-Rental/Loaned Vehicle: A copy of the rental agreement or a letter of authorization from the owner.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 26, 2026, 09:59:32 PM
To drive a car across the Canadian border, you need a valid passport (or NEXUS/enhanced driver’s license), driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for visits under 180 days. If renting, bring the rental agreement. Pets require proof of rabies vaccination.

Essential Documents for Border Crossing:

-For Persons (Citizenship/ID): Valid Passport, Passport Card, Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL), or Trusted Traveler Card (NEXUS). Children under 16 may use a birth certificate.

For the Vehicle:
-Registration: Original or copy of the vehicle registration.

-Insurance: Proof of insurance, preferably valid in both countries.

-Rental/Loaned Vehicle: A copy of the rental agreement or a letter of authorization from the owner.

Maybe the nice Brit interviewing the lawbreaker could have addressed the border crossing issue, among other issues.
But other than that, it was a cool omg story
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 26, 2026, 10:09:10 PM
To drive a car across the Canadian border, you need a valid passport (or NEXUS/enhanced driver’s license), driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for visits under 180 days. If renting, bring the rental agreement. Pets require proof of rabies vaccination.

Essential Documents for Border Crossing:

-For Persons (Citizenship/ID): Valid Passport, Passport Card, Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL), or Trusted Traveler Card (NEXUS). Children under 16 may use a birth certificate.

For the Vehicle:
-Registration: Original or copy of the vehicle registration.

-Insurance: Proof of insurance, preferably valid in both countries.

-Rental/Loaned Vehicle: A copy of the rental agreement or a letter of authorization from the owner.

I wonder if there's a place where Brits can go to read about the requirements to enter Canada.
In English.  ;D
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 26, 2026, 10:10:06 PM
AI says MsBrit, who had already overstayed a previous visa by 4 years, came to the US to see her husband who was still in the US and enjoying his 20 year stay of being an illegal so they could travel around the countryside.
How sweet.

Karen Newton has also violated the laws of this country, and overstayed her visa waiver admission for almost 4 years. She was banned from the US for 10 years. The Biden administration granted her a tourist visa after her ban ended in 2023
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 26, 2026, 10:30:01 PM
He didn't self deport before he got caught being in the country illegally for 20 years.
The offer was out before MsBrit came over and before he got caught.
FAFO

During their detention, an immigration agent told the couple they could choose “voluntary self-deportation”

https://www.business-standard.com/immigration/valid-us-visa-but-42-day-custody-over-husband-s-uk-tourist-case-explained-126022400299_1.html
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 26, 2026, 11:09:26 PM
During their detention, an immigration agent told the couple they could choose “voluntary self-deportation”

https://www.business-standard.com/immigration/valid-us-visa-but-42-day-custody-over-husband-s-uk-tourist-case-explained-126022400299_1.html
And they were given $1000 and airfare to leave.
As opposed to the previous administration that offered airfare, phones, lodging, meals and a phone to enter the US.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 26, 2026, 11:20:25 PM
Karen Newton has also violated the laws of this country, and overstayed her visa waiver admission for almost 4 years. She was banned from the US for 10 years. The Biden administration granted her a tourist visa after her ban ended in 2023

Did she put something on her visa application that she wanted to see her illegal alien husband in a couple of years, after not seeing him for 10 ?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 26, 2026, 11:41:26 PM
And they were given $1000 and airfare to leave.

I read somewhere the Newtons never got the $1000, but didn't care. They also reportedly never got their luggage.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 26, 2026, 11:46:16 PM

As opposed to the previous administration that offered airfare, phones, lodging, meals and a phone to enter the US.

Claims that the Biden administration provided free cell phones, travel, and pre-loaded cash cards to migrants upon entry are largely based on misrepresentations of existing, limited programs. While some migrants have been provided with phones for tracking in monitoring programs, and non-profits offer food/shelter, there is no government policy providing comprehensive, free travel and prepaid cards.

*Cell Phones: The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has used technology, including smartphones provided to some non-detained migrants, as part of the Intensive Supervision Appearance Program (ISAP) for tracking purposes.

*Travel and Housing: Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and humanitarian groups—not the federal government—often provide temporary lodging, meals, and assistance with transportation to the interior of the U.S. for asylum seekers.

*Misinformation: Similar claims that the Biden administration was distributing $5,000 visa cards were investigated and found to be false.

Note: The results indicate these claims have been made by political figures as criticisms of immigration policies, rather than official, publicized administration, according to AP News and Congressman Byron Donalds.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on February 27, 2026, 12:54:18 AM
Claims that the Biden administration provided free cell phones, travel, and pre-loaded cash cards to migrants upon entry are largely based on misrepresentations of existing, limited programs. While some migrants have been provided with phones for tracking in monitoring programs, and non-profits offer food/shelter, there is no government policy providing comprehensive, free travel and prepaid cards.

*Cell Phones: The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has used technology, including smartphones provided to some non-detained migrants, as part of the Intensive Supervision Appearance Program (ISAP) for tracking purposes.

*Travel and Housing: Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and humanitarian groups—not the federal government—often provide temporary lodging, meals, and assistance with transportation to the interior of the U.S. for asylum seekers.

*Misinformation: Similar claims that the Biden administration was distributing $5,000 visa cards were investigated and found to be false.

Note: The results indicate these claims have been made by political figures as criticisms of immigration policies, rather than official, publicized administration, according to AP News and Congressman Byron Donalds.

How much grant money was provided by the Biden administration to NGO's to provide housing etc ?

And Mr and Ms Brit are back home and together.

Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on February 27, 2026, 01:22:08 AM
Hey guys, this thread is about the da economy. PAMan is keeping strict tabs lately. No extraneous posting, and stick to ONLY the exact point being discussed. Thank you for your cooperation.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 27, 2026, 06:56:43 AM
You’ve never explained adequately why you’re a disingenuous dipshit. So we’re even, I guess.

Lock Tempo up! Lock Tenpo up!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on February 27, 2026, 06:57:41 AM
I will type more slowly..

The penalty for unlawful presence is removal. Self deportation is an available option. There are even incentives -- free tickets and cash. This saves both sides time and money

They were held 6 weeks and finally allowed to self deport..what was the point of holding them 6 weeks?

Teach them a lesson so they don't repeat the behavior?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 27, 2026, 11:23:03 AM
Hey guys, this thread is about the da economy. PAMan is keeping strict tabs lately. No extraneous posting, and stick to ONLY the exact point being discussed. Thank you for your cooperation.

Prob my fault
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on February 27, 2026, 11:37:37 AM
And Mr and Ms Brit are back home and together.

The Newtons. And the whole story about William.Newton overstaying an H-1B visa for 20 years makes no.sense.Thr H-1B visa is employer sponsored, lasts 3 years, and can only be renewed once..

At that point, they should've applied for a change of status..
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 27, 2026, 12:06:27 PM
Summary from Krugman -


If Biden's economy was so shitty, then it would have been trivial for Trump to make things better in short order.

Instead, despite starting at a supposedly low floor, he's made it worse. That's some real talent there.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on February 27, 2026, 12:09:46 PM
Dow hit 50k today

My 401K and other investments absolutely killed it overall in 2025 and Jan 26

Gas $2.49 and bought milk for $1.94 and eggs for $1.88 the other day

At this rate I’ll be able to own as many homes as murph before long!

Dow -645

But we don't want you to notice that so ... Trump says "I'd love to not attack Iran, but sometimes you have to"
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 02, 2026, 01:55:08 AM
Oil Prices Climb as Much as 13% After Iran Attack, Pointing to Economic Risks
How long prices remain high will depend on what the United States, Israel and Iran do next.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 03, 2026, 09:53:12 AM
Dow hit 50k today

My 401K and other investments absolutely killed it overall in 2025 and Jan 26

Gas $2.49 and bought milk for $1.94 and eggs for $1.88 the other day

At this rate I’ll be able to own as many homes as murph before long!

This aged like the second half of the UConn game
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 03, 2026, 10:20:53 AM
Milk and eggs still dirt cheap, gas still cheap, Dow goes up and down but will hit 50k again by April 15.

But your rush to excitement when anything remotely negative happens is noted!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 03, 2026, 10:23:02 AM
Milk and eggs still dirt cheap, gas still cheap, Dow goes up and down but will hit 50k again by April 15.

But your rush to excitement when anything remotely negative happens is noted!


Oil prices up 15% this week - gas will follow

The only negative thing that happened was dropping a bunch of bombs
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on March 03, 2026, 10:25:53 AM

Oil prices up 15% this week - gas will follow

The only negative thing that happened was dropping a bunch of bombs

Unless you own defense stocks.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on March 03, 2026, 02:02:50 PM
Gas is up .72 cents since two days ago here in Itasca.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on March 03, 2026, 02:03:25 PM
Unless you own defense stocks.

War is a racket. It’s the biggest money laundering scheme in history, and always will be.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on March 03, 2026, 02:11:31 PM
Gas is up .72 cents since two days ago here in Itasca.

It's up about 50 cents here.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 03, 2026, 03:09:13 PM
Unless you own defense stocks.

Only defense stocks….
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on March 03, 2026, 03:40:45 PM
War is a racket. It’s the biggest money laundering scheme in history, and always will be.

Your 401(k) may disagree, or not. That is if you bother to have one.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 04, 2026, 12:00:25 AM
Gas is up .72 cents since two days ago here in Itasca.

Gas is up and it’s still cheap. Let’s see what actually happens over the coming weeks because it’s just uncertainty and not any actual supply issues causing the spike.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 04, 2026, 12:08:53 AM
Gas is up and it’s still cheap. Let’s see what actually happens over the coming weeks because it’s just uncertainty and not any actual supply issues causing the spike.

Rubio would be proud of you.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 04, 2026, 12:17:51 AM
Rubio would be proud of you.

I’m old enough to remember when gas went to $5+ after 9/11 and gas stations had to give money back for price gouging. It’s going to be ok.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on March 04, 2026, 07:48:17 AM
Rubio would be proud of you.

You would think you would find the silver lining, since higher costs would make people ride bikes or buy electric cars
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 04, 2026, 10:19:25 AM
I’m old enough to remember when gas went to $5+ after 9/11 and gas stations had to give money back for price gouging. It’s going to be ok.

Why do you hate Capitalism
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 04, 2026, 10:19:55 AM
You would think you would find the silver lining, since higher costs would make people ride bikes or buy electric cars

The silver lining will be the midterms
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on March 04, 2026, 10:23:15 AM
Your 401(k) may disagree, or not. That is if you bother to have one.

That doesn’t mean your 401k can’t be good.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on March 04, 2026, 10:24:50 AM
Gas is up and it’s still cheap. Let’s see what actually happens over the coming weeks because it’s just uncertainty and not any actual supply issues causing the spike.

There is no uncertainty. Not here anyway.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 04, 2026, 10:27:56 AM
That doesn’t mean your 401k can’t be good.

I moved all the money in my 401k to cash, a few weeks ago
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 04, 2026, 11:06:25 AM
Why do you hate Capitalism

Put all your retirement into bitcoin for a few weeks
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on March 04, 2026, 11:17:27 AM
Saw something about Toyota shifting plans for a major EV and battery plant from Alabama to Canada. Also, Canada signed a related deal with South Korea? Is it possible foreign investors are becoming less than comfortable with the erratic trade policies of the USA?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 04, 2026, 11:55:58 AM
Saw something about Toyota shifting plans for a major EV and battery plant from Alabama to Canada. Also, Canada signed a related deal with South Korea? Is it possible foreign investors are becoming less than comfortable with the erratic policies of the USA?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on March 04, 2026, 12:04:05 PM
AI

No, Toyota is not planning to move an EV and battery plant from Alabama to Canada. This appears to be a viral rumor or misinformation circulating on social media (YouTube videos, Facebook, Threads, TikTok, etc.) in early 2026, often tied to political commentary about U.S. tariffs, trade policies, or the Trump administration.

Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on March 04, 2026, 12:29:36 PM
AI

No, Toyota is not planning to move an EV and battery plant from Alabama to Canada. This appears to be a viral rumor or misinformation circulating on social media (YouTube videos, Facebook, Threads, TikTok, etc.) in early 2026, often tied to political commentary about U.S. tariffs, trade policies, or the Trump administration.
The only thing that would be more shocking would AI bring right....
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on March 04, 2026, 12:48:06 PM
AI

No, Toyota is not planning to move an EV and battery plant from Alabama to Canada. This appears to be a viral rumor or misinformation circulating on social media (YouTube videos, Facebook, Threads, TikTok, etc.) in early 2026, often tied to political commentary about U.S. tariffs, trade policies, or the Trump administration.

Nobody said they are planning to move an existing plant. They are apparently shifting plans for a new plant.

Better AI:

Based on reports from early 2026, Toyota has reportedly shifted plans for a major, estimated $9-billion electric vehicle (EV) and battery megafactory project from Alabama to Ontario, Canada. This decision is driven by a desire for long-term supply chain stability, trade predictability, and to avoid volatile U.S. tariff threats, according to reports.

Here are the key details regarding the shifting EV plans and Canada’s partnerships:

*Toyota's Move to Canada: The reported $9-billion project was initially slated for Alabama but shifted to the Windsor-Essex area in Ontario, Canada. The decision reflects a preference for Canadian policy stability over the uncertainty of U.S. tariff policy, which industry analysts say is influencing long-term, decade-long investment decisions.

*Canada-South Korea Deal: Amidst threats of tariffs from the U.S., Canada and South Korea signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in January 2026 to deepen cooperation in the automotive sector. The deal focuses on developing a Korean automotive industrial footprint in Canada, specifically targeting battery production and supply chain security.

*Foreign Investor Sentiment: The move is interpreted as a sign that foreign investors are increasingly uncomfortable with the perceived "erratic" or protectionist trade policies of the United States, particularly regarding "America First" policies and fluctuating tariff threats.

*Canadian Advantages: Canada is being chosen for its stable regulatory environment, access to critical minerals, and strategic, long-term investments in its EV ecosystem.

Contextual Details

While the shift to Canada represents a loss for Alabama, reports indicate that Toyota also recently opened a $14-billion battery plant in North Carolina in late 2025. The move of the $9-billion project to Canada is seen as a strategic pivot to secure a stable manufacturing base, despite some analysts noting that this may be a reflection of, rather than a total abandonment of, the North American market.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on March 04, 2026, 01:06:06 PM
Looking like Nichi's AI is better than Mn's!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on March 04, 2026, 01:13:07 PM
They didn't get the memo....

https://www.wsj.com/personal-finance/retirement/record-numbers-of-workers-are-raiding-their-401-k-savings-bc89d5c3

Record Numbers of Workers Are Raiding Their 401(k) Savings
A divergent economy has given people record retirement savings and more need to dig into them
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on March 04, 2026, 01:35:07 PM
Put all your retirement into bitcoin for a few weeks

Halliburton for the next 6-12 months.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 04, 2026, 02:47:29 PM
Looking like Nichi's AI is better than Mn's!

Artificial intelligence beats no intelligence every time
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 04, 2026, 02:48:24 PM
They didn't get the memo....

https://www.wsj.com/personal-finance/retirement/record-numbers-of-workers-are-raiding-their-401-k-savings-bc89d5c3

Record Numbers of Workers Are Raiding Their 401(k) Savings
A divergent economy has given people record retirement savings and more need to dig into them

Trump closes the budget hole collecting 10% penalties- 3D chess
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on March 04, 2026, 06:11:02 PM
Artificial intelligence beats no intelligence every time

GIGO
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 06, 2026, 12:09:27 PM
Good buying opportunities
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on March 06, 2026, 12:58:01 PM
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/06/february-2026-jobs-report.html

Economy
U.S. payrolls unexpectedly fell by 92,000 in February; unemployment rate rises to 4.4%

Good time to reinstitute the draft?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 06, 2026, 01:38:45 PM
Good buying opportunities

The good buying opportunities were oil futures before the attack. Jared K probably got in on that action
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on March 06, 2026, 01:42:52 PM
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/06/february-2026-jobs-report.html

Economy
U.S. payrolls unexpectedly fell by 92,000 in February; unemployment rate rises to 4.4%

Good time to reinstitute the draft?

#TrumpSlump
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 06, 2026, 03:19:31 PM
The good buying opportunities were oil futures before the attack. Jared K probably got in on that action

Well when oil is at multi year lows yeah that’s a pretty good time to buy, war or not
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 06, 2026, 03:25:11 PM
The jobs report thing is wild. Added 126k in Jan and lost 92k in Feb? Ooook. Just now learned that tens of thousands of the losses are in Hawaii and California due to strikes and expected to be temporary. The AI Murph built took his job.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 06, 2026, 04:30:12 PM
Well when oil is at multi year lows yeah that’s a pretty good time to buy, war or not

When you can pull the levers to start a war that causes the biggest one week percentage increase in oil prices  - that is also a good time to buy.

I presume you are retiring now that you went all in on those multi year lows and made bank?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on March 06, 2026, 05:34:09 PM
When you can pull the levers to start a war that causes the biggest one week percentage increase in oil prices  - that is also a good time to buy.

I presume you are retiring now that you went all in on those multi year lows and made bank?

Custard has an electric car....He was way AOTC on this war.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 06, 2026, 11:29:18 PM
Custard has an electric car....He was way AOTC on this war.

I learned a lot from Murph in the Cycling thread and spend most of my time these days chastising random people for running in the bike lane and flipping off motorists for honking at me  when I’m taking up a lane on a hilly two lane road
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on March 07, 2026, 12:15:22 PM
Just bought gas. That sucked!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 07, 2026, 06:03:59 PM
Custard has an electric car....He was way AOTC on this war.

Until it gives him cancer
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 07, 2026, 06:04:57 PM
Just bought gas. That sucked!

Hoax! You love giving your money to our overlords almost as much as Custard does
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 07, 2026, 07:04:33 PM
Just bought gas. That sucked!

Too bad the progressives made public transit in Chicago unusable.

Make sure you’re using the Upside app when buying gas and groceries!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on March 08, 2026, 12:07:12 AM
Don't think The Costco accepts that app
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 08, 2026, 10:01:00 PM
Too bad the progressives made public transit in Chicago unusable.

Make sure you’re using the Upside app when buying gas and groceries!

You see - Custard is not against public transit - he is just against funding it enough that it’s usable

oil prices neared $120 per barrel for the first time since 2022


Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 08, 2026, 10:14:04 PM
You see - Custard is not against public transit - he is just against funding it enough that it’s usable

oil prices neared $120 per barrel for the first time since 2022

Public transportation funding is fine, how about we just try and make it so it feel halfway safe and you don’t smell like a weed vape when you get off it?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 08, 2026, 11:07:54 PM
Public transportation funding is fine, how about we just try and make it so it feel halfway safe and you don’t smell like a weed vape when you get off it?

Guess all we need to do is ban your kids to get rid of that vape smell
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on March 09, 2026, 06:23:23 AM
I want clean, safe public transportation. I just don't want to pay for it. And I am not riding a bus with the unwashed masses.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 11, 2026, 09:44:14 AM
“Prepare for an extreme stock market rally” says Goldman Sachs

https://www.tipranks.com/news/prepare-for-an-extreme-stock-market-rally-says-goldman-sachs
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on March 11, 2026, 10:08:48 AM
“Prepare for an extreme stock market rally” says Goldman Sachs

https://www.tipranks.com/news/prepare-for-an-extreme-stock-market-rally-says-goldman-sachs

No shit.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 11, 2026, 01:04:55 PM
“Prepare for an extreme stock market rally” says Goldman Sachs

https://www.tipranks.com/news/prepare-for-an-extreme-stock-market-rally-says-goldman-sachs

We are net long and need the retail investor to bid up stocks, says Goldman Sachs.

https://youtu.be/Cxjdj5_5yNM?si=CjcKOlscDUG2Y5RX
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 13, 2026, 09:02:29 PM
Mortgage rates surge to highest since September, hitting spring housing market

S&P 500 falls to new low for year on Iran oil crisis, posts third-straight losing week

What asshole is in charge of this joint?

Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 14, 2026, 02:22:05 PM
Mortgage rates surge to highest since September, hitting spring housing market

S&P 500 falls to new low for year on Iran oil crisis, posts third-straight losing week

What asshole is in charge of this joint?

This is going to be very hard for you metabolize, but I trust you’ll get through it!

S&P

(https://i.ibb.co/Xf4Kr4Gn/IMG-3279.jpg) (https://ibb.co/wZLPFL2n)

Gas

(https://i.ibb.co/tTKmvyLF/IMG-3280.jpg) (https://ibb.co/DHWVv3rT)

Mortgage rates
(https://i.ibb.co/MyYZYXWM/IMG-3281.jpg) (https://ibb.co/tw7Q7dk8)

Dow Jones

(https://i.ibb.co/6JyTXz4q/IMG-3282.jpg) (https://ibb.co/PzrPDK5V)

Eggs

(https://i.ibb.co/1ttNHb3h/IMG-3283.jpg) (https://ibb.co/9kk0RGJz)
(https://i.ibb.co/KxSNtYcJ/IMG-3284.jpg) (https://ibb.co/m5gvnmr3)

Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on March 14, 2026, 02:30:20 PM
$2.50? Should be $1.99 if not $0.99.  Thanks, Trump.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 14, 2026, 03:26:46 PM
$2.50? Should be $1.99 if not $0.99.  Thanks, Trump.

They’re $1.94 at my local grocer
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 15, 2026, 11:59:21 PM
They’re $1.94 at my local grocer

Yeah but those are pre COVID eggs
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 16, 2026, 02:10:58 PM
Have to give kudos to Custard on this one I guess

Meta stock climbs nearly 3% on report of planned layoffs to offset AI spending
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on March 17, 2026, 03:47:56 AM
Eggs were pretty cheap at Woodman’s yesterday. Wasn’t buying any, so can’t remember what grade a large or jumbo were but I think mediums were as low as $1.69. Large were probably under $2
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Somewhere in Mn on March 17, 2026, 07:15:46 AM
99 cents for 2 oz of Buddig corned beef at the local grocer yesterday. That seems expensive so I only picked up 3 for later today.
Cabbage was cheap.

Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on March 17, 2026, 09:23:07 AM
(https://i.ibb.co/wN01qCqn/Screenshot-20260309-002404-2.jpg) (https://imgbb.com/)
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 17, 2026, 09:44:55 AM
99 cents for 2 oz of Buddig corned beef at the local grocer yesterday. That seems expensive so I only picked up 3 for later today.
Cabbage was cheap.

Buddig corned beef is expensive mostly in terms of future medical bills
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on March 17, 2026, 09:55:35 AM
Buddig corned beef is expensive mostly in terms of future medical bills

And, it's fucking terrible
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on March 17, 2026, 01:40:57 PM
Gas up another 40 cents today in my neighborhood
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 17, 2026, 07:24:11 PM
And, it's fucking terrible

Price is often a proxy for quality
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on March 17, 2026, 07:34:35 PM
Jobu does not like Buddig, that has been established.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on March 18, 2026, 07:41:58 AM
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/18/ppi-inflation-february-2026.html

Wholesale prices rose 0.7% in February, much more than expected
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 18, 2026, 09:52:28 AM
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/18/ppi-inflation-february-2026.html

Wholesale prices rose 0.7% in February, much more than expected

But you see - the Farmers locked in their prices on fertilizer last December.

They have to go to Iran to get it, but they are locked in. Sort of like the Bears locked in their price for Justin Fields
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 18, 2026, 10:14:15 AM
Zero US fertilizer comes from Iran. Turns out we basically don’t do business with them at all and haven’t for decades.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 18, 2026, 11:45:02 AM
Zero US fertilizer comes from Iran. Turns out we basically don’t do business with them at all and haven’t for decades.

Once again with the communism

US fertilizer producers will exploit the increase in global prices and ship fertilizer overseas to where Persian gulf fertilizer would otherwise go.

Unless you’re a communist like Custard who hates free markets and wants to tell companies what to do
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on March 18, 2026, 11:46:16 AM
Custard is a communist and Tempo is supporting White Nationalists. What a week.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 18, 2026, 11:47:12 AM
Zero US fertilizer comes from Iran. Turns out we basically don’t do business with them at all and haven’t for decades.

While the U.S. produces much of its own fertilizer, it relies on global markets for imports, with about 15% of U.S. fertilizer imports originating from the Middle East. Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz can affect this supply and raise prices.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 18, 2026, 11:47:33 AM
Custard is a communist and Tempo is supporting White Nationalists. What a week.

Custard has always been a commie
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: alum74 on March 18, 2026, 12:33:56 PM
Zero US fertilizer comes from Iran. Turns out we basically don’t do business with them at all and haven’t for decades.

Your words will comfort this Tennessee farmer.
https://www.wral.com/news/ap/aa846-iran-war-has-us-farmers-worried-about-the-cost-and-availability-of-fertilizer/#:~:text=Nitrogen%2Dbased%20fertilizer%20is%20especially,the%20farm%2C%E2%80%9D%20Littleton%20said.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on March 18, 2026, 01:35:09 PM
Your words will comfort this Tennessee farmer.
https://www.wral.com/news/ap/aa846-iran-war-has-us-farmers-worried-about-the-cost-and-availability-of-fertilizer/#:~:text=Nitrogen%2Dbased%20fertilizer%20is%20especially,the%20farm%2C%E2%80%9D%20Littleton%20said.

Maybe Trump will send him an appreciation letter for his sacrifices to his country.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 18, 2026, 01:44:02 PM
Maybe Trump will send him an appreciation letter for his sacrifices to his country.

What a fucking disaster. Trumpers paying a buck a gallon more saying “it’s worth the sacrifice” while rich fuckers with solar panels and Teslas laugh and count their Raytheon stock
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on March 18, 2026, 01:59:21 PM
What a fucking disaster. Trumpers paying a buck a gallon more saying “it’s worth the sacrifice” while rich fuckers with solar panels and Teslas laugh and count their Raytheon stock

EV and solar panel makers missing some great marketing opportunities here.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 18, 2026, 02:01:58 PM
EV and solar panel makers missing some great marketing opportunities here.

Now we know why Musk supported this asshole
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: ThePAMan on March 18, 2026, 02:04:00 PM
Now we know why Musk supported this asshole

He may be dumb, but he is not stupid.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 18, 2026, 02:18:33 PM
He may be dumb, but he is not stupid.

This post - not a strawman
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 18, 2026, 04:02:43 PM
Your words will comfort this Tennessee farmer.
https://www.wral.com/news/ap/aa846-iran-war-has-us-farmers-worried-about-the-cost-and-availability-of-fertilizer/#:~:text=Nitrogen%2Dbased%20fertilizer%20is%20especially,the%20farm%2C%E2%80%9D%20Littleton%20said.

Any farmer that waits until March to buy any fertilizer is a moron. I’ve been in 6 meetings this week with successful medium to larger farms that run their operations like an actual business this week in Indiana, and not a single one has expressed concern about in season fert availability or cost. Why? Because they bought it already.

It is absolutely reckless to go into the season without inputs locked down. Tells me right there that this guy runs a shitty business. A lot of these farmers down south in the Delta and W Tenn etc have been on the brink for 2 years now because they’ve hillbilly farmers who would have gone broke years ago if subsidies weren’t keeping them afloat. They aren’t businessmen. Farms stay afloat more by what happens in the office than what happens in the field.

Inputs have been really high and haven’t come down since Russia invaded Ukraine and we quit importing from them. And collusion.

Luckily for me I’m part owner and on the leadership team of a business that has patented products that allow farmers to use significantly less synthetic fertilizer, reduce costs, and get the same or better yields than their traditional fertility program.

Marketing contacted me a bit ago that a lead had come through and sent it my way. Called the guy and talked for 45 mins. By the end of the call he committed to using the products full farm (2200 acres) a 42k investment which will save him $120k.

So really this is going to be good for the environment by getting people to quit over applying synthetic fertilizers and good for their bottom line because it will open their eyes to trying new technology. Usually the biggest hurdle to the adoption of change in ag is finance.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 18, 2026, 04:03:54 PM
Also the article says it takes 45 days for raw materials to get here from the Middle East. That wasn’t getting made into fertilizer for this spring anyways. Quit lapping this shit up, you guys don’t even know what you’re talking about.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 18, 2026, 04:10:37 PM
Any farmer that waits until March to buy any fertilizer is a moron. I’ve been in 6 meetings this week with successful medium to larger farms that run their operations like an actual business this week in Indiana, and not a single one has expressed concern about in season fert availability or cost. Why? Because they bought it already.


Have they already taken delivery?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 18, 2026, 04:12:50 PM
Also the article says it takes 45 days for raw materials to get here from the Middle East. That wasn’t getting made into fertilizer for this spring anyways. Quit lapping this shit up, you guys don’t even know what you’re talking about.

Also apparently not knowing what they are talking about - the suppliers who raised prices on fertilizer not reliant on supplies in the gulf
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: alum74 on March 18, 2026, 04:37:37 PM
Any farmer that waits until March to buy any fertilizer is a moron. I’ve been in 6 meetings this week with successful medium to larger farms that run their operations like an actual business this week in Indiana, and not a single one has expressed concern about in season fert availability or cost. Why? Because they bought it already.

It is absolutely reckless to go into the season without inputs locked down. Tells me right there that this guy runs a shitty business. A lot of these farmers down south in the Delta and W Tenn etc have been on the brink for 2 years now because they’ve hillbilly farmers who would have gone broke years ago if subsidies weren’t keeping them afloat. They aren’t businessmen. Farms stay afloat more by what happens in the office than what happens in the field.

Inputs have been really high and haven’t come down since Russia invaded Ukraine and we quit importing from them. And collusion.

Luckily for me I’m part owner and on the leadership team of a business that has patented products that allow farmers to use significantly less synthetic fertilizer, reduce costs, and get the same or better yields than their traditional fertility program.

Marketing contacted me a bit ago that a lead had come through and sent it my way. Called the guy and talked for 45 mins. By the end of the call he committed to using the products full farm (2200 acres) a 42k investment which will save him $120k.

So really this is going to be good for the environment by getting people to quit over applying synthetic fertilizers and good for their bottom line because it will open their eyes to trying new technology. Usually the biggest hurdle to the adoption of change in ag is finance.

So you've had six meetings and everything is hunky-dory in the ag sector?

Yes, some farmers can buy early (to lock in prices), particularly the larger or better-capitalized operations.  But in 2025-2026, many farmers are financially constrained and cautious.  The profits farmers made when crop prices were high a few years ago have eroded and balance sheets are tight.

More and more farmers aren’t just asking “Should I buy early?”
They’re asking “Can I afford to?”

Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 18, 2026, 04:51:20 PM
So you've had six meetings and everything is hunky-dory in the ag sector?

Yes, some farmers can buy early (to lock in prices), particularly the larger or better-capitalized operations.  But in 2025-2026, many farmers are financially constrained and cautious.  The profits farmers made when crop prices were high a few years ago have eroded and balance sheets are tight.

More and more farmers aren’t just asking “Should I buy early?”
They’re asking “Can I afford to?”

Custard will bet you he's right! $10,000, right now!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 18, 2026, 10:29:56 PM
So you've had six meetings and everything is hunky-dory in the ag sector?

Yes, some farmers can buy early (to lock in prices), particularly the larger or better-capitalized operations.  But in 2025-2026, many farmers are financially constrained and cautious.  The profits farmers made when crop prices were high a few years ago have eroded and balance sheets are tight.

More and more farmers aren’t just asking “Should I buy early?”
They’re asking “Can I afford to?”

Strawman alert. No one said it was all hunky dory.

Someone posted an article interviewing some guy who is doing things very differently than what successful farmers typically do and getting burned in the process.

The last two years some people waited to buy and were able to get some last minute deals. This year it backfired on them because they failed to hedge their cost risk. Probably didn’t buy fuel either when it was at a multi year low all winter.

“Can I afford to?”

He can’t afford to buy late even more than he couldn’t afford to buy early.

He has four choices really at this point:

1. He buys the fertilizer at what it costs now and continues to farm this year as normal. He’ll probably lose money again this year unless crop prices rally to offset the additional cost.

2. He doesn’t buy it and maybe he’s hoping he applied enough in the past that there’s enough in the soil fertility bank that he has decent yields and he lives to have a better strategy for securing inputs next year. Or maybe it’s a colossal failure and he goes broke.

3. He reduces his inputs strategically which would lower his cost and still give himself a shot at a normal yield. This is pretty common the last couple of years but you still want to have a better strategy than waiting til the last minute hoping you’ll get lucky buying one of the most critical pieces of the puzzle.

4. He quits farming and the neighbor down the road who is a better businessman takes it over and hires him to run the seed tender.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: alum74 on March 19, 2026, 12:13:15 AM
Strawman alert. No one said it was all hunky dory.

Someone posted an article interviewing some guy who is doing things very differently than what successful farmers typically do and getting burned in the process.

The last two years some people waited to buy and were able to get some last minute deals. This year it backfired on them because they failed to hedge their cost risk. Probably didn’t buy fuel either when it was at a multi year low all winter.

“Can I afford to?”

He can’t afford to buy late even more than he couldn’t afford to buy early.

He has four choices really at this point:

1. He buys the fertilizer at what it costs now and continues to farm this year as normal. He’ll probably lose money again this year unless crop prices rally to offset the additional cost.

2. He doesn’t buy it and maybe he’s hoping he applied enough in the past that there’s enough in the soil fertility bank that he has decent yields and he lives to have a better strategy for securing inputs next year. Or maybe it’s a colossal failure and he goes broke.

3. He reduces his inputs strategically which would lower his cost and still give himself a shot at a normal yield. This is pretty common the last couple of years but you still want to have a better strategy than waiting til the last minute hoping you’ll get lucky buying one of the most critical pieces of the puzzle.

4. He quits farming and the neighbor down the road who is a better businessman takes it over and hires him to run the seed tender.

Farmers have been facing a profitability crunch over the last 2-3 years.  In addition to fertilizer, they're paying more for fuel, seed, and chemicals.  This makes it even more difficult to cover debt obligations, reinvest in their operations and build future reserves.

It's easy for you to sit in your cubicle being smug and downplaying the problems in the industry, but the Iran war just made it a lot worse for many who were already struggling with high input costs and declining commodity prices. 
https://www.fb.org/market-intel/declining-farm-economy-continues-to-pressure-profitability#:~:text=Commodity%20Prices%20Declining,record%20crops%20at%20competitive%20prices.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 19, 2026, 02:28:01 AM
Farmers have been facing a profitability crunch over the last 2-3 years.  In addition to fertilizer, they're paying more for fuel, seed, and chemicals.  This makes it even more difficult to cover debt obligations, reinvest in their operations and build future reserves.

It's easy for you to sit in your cubicle being smug and downplaying the problems in the industry, but the Iran war just made it a lot worse for many who were already struggling with high input costs and declining commodity prices. 
https://www.fb.org/market-intel/declining-farm-economy-continues-to-pressure-profitability#:~:text=Commodity%20Prices%20Declining,record%20crops%20at%20competitive%20prices.

I don’t sit in a cubicle, I travel all over the country meeting with decision makers for farming operations.

You make these reductionist comments with no mention of the fact that fuel has been low all winter, prices for grain have been up, interest has come down, etc. We all know input prices have remained high and commodity prices have been relatively low. A few months ago you showed zero mercy for farmers as you skewered them for their lack of gumption to create new markets and diversify their operations. Now you are crying for them because the Iran war or whatever it is temporarily is causing some price spikes for inputs that they shouldn’t even be pricing right now anyways.

Seed prices aren’t up. They simply aren’t. Fuel was at a multi year low most of the winter. Fert and chem has stayed high for years now because of collusion and Russian sanctions. Pretty sure you like Russian sanctions. Crop prices have been low because American farmers keep raising huge crops, and oil has been cheap. Supply > Demand = low prices.

Want me to go back and repost all the times you lambasted American farmers last fall or do you still remember it?
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 19, 2026, 10:03:49 AM
Hegseth says potential $200 billion Iran war spending request could shift: ‘Takes money to kill bad guys’

Mn and Custard - supporters of tax increases and deficits
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 19, 2026, 10:06:25 AM
I don’t sit in a cubicle, I travel all over the country meeting with decision makers for farming operations.

You make these reductionist comments with no mention of the fact that fuel has been low all winter, prices for grain have been up, interest has come down, etc. We all know input prices have remained high and commodity prices have been relatively low. A few months ago you showed zero mercy for farmers as you skewered them for their lack of gumption to create new markets and diversify their operations. Now you are crying for them because the Iran war or whatever it is temporarily is causing some price spikes for inputs that they shouldn’t even be pricing right now anyways.

Seed prices aren’t up. They simply aren’t. Fuel was at a multi year low most of the winter. Fert and chem has stayed high for years now because of collusion and Russian sanctions. Pretty sure you like Russian sanctions. Crop prices have been low because American farmers keep raising huge crops, and oil has been cheap. Supply > Demand = low prices.

Want me to go back and repost all the times you lambasted American farmers last fall or do you still remember it?

Unless those farmers have a huge diesel repository on their farm - the price of diesel last winter don’t mean shit.

And for both fuel and fertilizer - buying hedges last year don’t mean shit if there is no product for physical delivery. The guys who ran “The Big Short” made a lot of money but in many cases were only getting 30 cents on the dollar for their insurance contracts because the counter party was broke
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on March 19, 2026, 10:47:36 AM
I guess doubling defense spending wasn’t enough.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: alum74 on March 19, 2026, 10:49:48 AM


Want me to go back and repost all the times you lambasted American farmers last fall or do you still remember it?

I remember pointing out that the tariffs were damaging the ag sector. 

Global markets disruption + higher input costs + economic uncertainty + flip-flopping policies = declining profitability.
https://www.google.com/amp/s/thehill.com/business/5725318-farmers-trump-tariffs-usda/amp/


Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 19, 2026, 12:34:04 PM

Want me to go back and repost all the times you lambasted American farmers last fall or do you still remember it?

Pointing out that Trump is fucking the farmers is lambasting Trump - not the farmers.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on March 19, 2026, 01:03:04 PM
Pointing out that Trump is fucking the farmers is lambasting Trump - not the farmers.

Most of the farmers voted for Trump. They get what they get.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 19, 2026, 01:23:49 PM
Most of the farmers voted for Trump. They get what they get.

I'm more focused on helping them figure out they got conned so we can start fixing this shit.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Jobu on March 19, 2026, 02:58:32 PM
I'm more focused on helping them figure out they got conned so we can start fixing this shit.

It's very hard to fix brainwashed people that are in a cult. Like, damn near impossible.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on March 19, 2026, 04:42:08 PM
It's very hard to fix brainwashed people that are in a cult. Like, damn near impossible.

Amens to that. Don’t want to admit they got duped.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 19, 2026, 05:07:46 PM
Unless those farmers have a huge diesel repository on their farm - the price of diesel last winter don’t mean shit.

And for both fuel and fertilizer - buying hedges last year don’t mean shit if there is no product for physical delivery. The guys who ran “The Big Short” made a lot of money but in many cases were only getting 30 cents on the dollar for their insurance contracts because the counter party was broke

They do have huge diesel tanks and they fill them when the price is low.

One place I was at the other day had a million gallon tank for UAN (nitrogen water, basically) that was almost full. It’s what he and their neighbor need for the entire year.

You don’t buy fertilizer hedges, you buy and prepay for the product at a discount. There is no shortage. Our fertilizer doesn’t come from the Middle East.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on March 19, 2026, 05:10:05 PM
Gas up another 40 cents today in my neighborhood

Womp, womp, womp…

(https://i.postimg.cc/vZCC3hpC/IMG-6078.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/bZH6vxYR)
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 19, 2026, 05:19:22 PM
.

You don’t buy fertilizer hedges, you buy and prepay for the product at a discount. There is no shortage. Our fertilizer doesn’t come from the Middle East.

Then crop price increases are a mistaken reaction by wall street based on faulty intelligence on the impact of fertilizer costs.

please show us the records of your current short on the corn markets where you are exploiting this mistake. Or just ask your woman to send us your balls because clearly you never use them
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Judge Judy on March 19, 2026, 05:25:45 PM
Or just ask your woman to send us your balls because clearly you never use them

I think you’re confusing him with Tempo…
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 19, 2026, 05:35:08 PM
I think you’re confusing him with Tempo…
Tempo is an Uber driver, that takes some fucking balls.

Custard tells us how the world supposedly works, but never has the balls to actually trade on it. Which is a good thing because in addition to not having any balls, he has no brain.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 19, 2026, 05:49:08 PM
Then crop price increases are a mistaken reaction by wall street based on faulty intelligence on the impact of fertilizer costs.

please show us the records of your current short on the corn markets where you are exploiting this mistake. Or just ask your woman to send us your balls because clearly you never use them

My trades are doing great. Not sure I’d be short corn long term considering a lot of acres will get switched to lower input soybeans/sorghum unless there’s a serious corn rally to buy corn acres ahead of planting.
 
Farmers don’t get to pass along the additional costs of fuel or fertilizer. The guys trading at CBOT don’t care whether farmers are selling grain for more than the cost of production.

Crop prices are up more because of speculative buying which always happens in these situations. Also because the price of biofuels will make them more attractive than petroleum. It’s given farmers a much needed opportunity to sell stored grain and forward market this fall’s harvest at levels we haven’t seen since early 2024.

Farmers that still have livestock actually have a cash problem right now, as in they need to get rid of it to avoid tax problems.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 19, 2026, 05:57:55 PM
Tempo is an Uber driver, that takes some fucking balls.

Custard tells us how the world supposedly works, but never has the balls to actually trade on it. Which is a good thing because in addition to not having any balls, he has no brain.

Brainless is a Bay Area computer guy telling somehow who has spent his entire life/career in midwestern ag how  ag works because he read some articles written by people who who also don’t know how ag works
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 19, 2026, 08:39:02 PM
Brainless is a Bay Area computer guy telling somehow who has spent his entire life/career in midwestern ag how  ag works because he read some articles written by people who who also don’t know how ag works

The family business. Founded in the 30's

https://www.machinefinder.com/ww/en-US/dealers/c-c-hawes-implement-co-new-holland-il-066271


Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 20, 2026, 02:58:08 PM
Dow hit 50k today

My 401K and other investments absolutely killed it overall in 2025 and Jan 26

Gas $2.49 and bought milk for $1.94 and eggs for $1.88 the other day

At this rate I’ll be able to own as many homes as murph before long!

National Gas Average $3.88

Mortgage rates As of March 20, 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is hovering around 6.22% to 6.32%. Rates have increased slightly, marking their highest point in over three months, after recently (pre-war) dipping below 6%

DJIA - 45782 - down 8.5% since Custard's post.

Can we get rid of this lunatic soon? Though it may not matter, pass the bottle and the damage done.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 20, 2026, 11:56:08 PM
National Gas Average $3.88

Mortgage rates As of March 20, 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is hovering around 6.22% to 6.32%. Rates have increased slightly, marking their highest point in over three months, after recently (pre-war) dipping below 6%

DJIA - 45782 - down 8.5% since Custard's post.

Can we get rid of this lunatic soon? Though it may not matter, pass the bottle and the damage done.

National gas average finally back up to around what it AVERAGED for Biden’s ENTIRE term

Mortgage rates still down as a whole during Trump’s term

DJ (and S&P, Nasdaq) all still up considerably during Trump’s term

When this skirmish wraps the markets will have a furious rally and oil will quickly come down. Mortgage rates will probably not come down immediately but won’t go up much, if any.

Unload the crypto you don’t have before the rest of this happens
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on March 21, 2026, 10:06:34 AM
National Gas Average $3.88

Mortgage rates As of March 20, 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is hovering around 6.22% to 6.32%. Rates have increased slightly, marking their highest point in over three months, after recently (pre-war) dipping below 6%

DJIA - 45782 - down 8.5% since Custard's post.

Can we get rid of this lunatic soon? Though it may not matter, pass the bottle and the damage done.

Relax man, he’s doing it to own the Libz.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 21, 2026, 03:05:05 PM
National gas average finally back up to around what it AVERAGED for Biden’s ENTIRE term


Custard - celebrating the “Average” since 1972. No wonder he thought Groce and Lovie were such good coaches at Illinois
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 21, 2026, 03:12:26 PM
National gas average finally back up to around what it AVERAGED for Biden’s ENTIRE term
When Biden was elected - 2.41
When Biden left office - 3.11
Today - 3.88

Gas prices increased throughout 2020, under Trump, and continued into the early part of Biden’s term as a result of Trumps policies. As Biden’s term progressed, the policies of his administration corrected the failures of the Trump administration and drove prices back down, then the Trump regime took back over and as their policies took to the forefront - gas prices once again skyrocketed
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 21, 2026, 03:51:39 PM
https://paulkrugman.substack.com/p/lets-talk-about-fertilizer
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 21, 2026, 07:03:32 PM
When Biden was elected - 2.41
When Biden left office - 3.11
Today - 3.88

Gas prices increased throughout 2020, under Trump, and continued into the early part of Biden’s term as a result of Trumps policies. As Biden’s term progressed, the policies of his administration corrected the failures of the Trump administration and drove prices back down, then the Trump regime took back over and as their policies took to the forefront - gas prices once again skyrocketed

That’s an…interesting analysis.

Gas national average was $2.39 the day Biden was inaugurated. In 2022 it spiked to over $5. It averaged over $4 for that year. I’ve looked multiple places and the average for his entire terms is somewhere in the $3.50-3.65 range.

Price average for current Trump term is 3.05-$3.10, which includes the current  temporary spike.

But we all know Presidents don’t control gas prices.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 21, 2026, 07:05:14 PM
https://paulkrugman.substack.com/p/lets-talk-about-fertilizer

Quote
Hi, I’m Paul Krugman. Fertilizer is not usually one of my things, but it’s important in what’s happening right now.

Fertilizer all right…bullshit
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 21, 2026, 07:12:04 PM
That’s an…interesting analysis.

Gas national average was $2.39 the day Biden was inaugurated. In 2022 it spiked to over $5. It averaged over $4 for that year. I’ve looked multiple places and the average for his entire terms is somewhere in the $3.50-3.65 range.

Price average for current Trump term is 3.05-$3.10, which includes the current  temporary spike.

But we all know Presidents don’t control gas prices.

Lies damn lies and statistics. Please go to the gas station and tell them you want to pay the average over the Trump term and see what they say
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 21, 2026, 07:13:04 PM
Fertilizer all right…bullshit

I know you focus on Manure but this is about Force Majeure
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 27, 2026, 02:33:11 PM
National Gas Average $3.88

Mortgage rates As of March 20, 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is hovering around 6.22% to 6.32%. Rates have increased slightly, marking their highest point in over three months, after recently (pre-war) dipping below 6%

DJIA - 45782 - down 8.5% since Custard's post.

Can we get rid of this lunatic soon? Though it may not matter, pass the bottle and the damage done.
Gas $3.97
DJIA - 45,200
Mortgage rates  - 6.52%

Trump can spittle all he wants, the numbers don't lie.

Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 27, 2026, 02:34:34 PM

Gas national average was $2.39 the day Biden was inaugurated. In 2022 it spiked to over $5. It averaged over $4 for that year. I’ve looked multiple places and the average for his entire terms is somewhere in the $3.50-3.65 range.


Average under Biden - 40 cents lower than current prices. Way to go trump. Get a bike quick Custard. It will also help your BMI problem.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on March 31, 2026, 05:43:52 PM
Pretty good day for the economy. I would like everyone to note that I run to the board to boast good news and Murph runs here to boast bad news.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: illiniray on March 31, 2026, 06:33:31 PM
da economy sux
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on March 31, 2026, 08:30:44 PM
Pretty good day for the economy. I would like everyone to note that I run to the board to boast good news and Murph runs here to boast bad news.

No. I run to the board to complain that Trump started this war. The economic fallout is the symptom, not the cause.

Custard runs to the board to celebrate Trump announcing that we are surrendering to Iran, which has had the effect of oil prices decreasing, which has rallied the stock market. I'm skeptical that the market understands the impact of what Trump has done, or what his surrender will actually accomplsh in terms of reducing the energy shock, but let's hope it works.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on April 02, 2026, 01:01:51 PM
Amazon to add 3.5% fuel and logistics surcharge for sellers as Iran war drives up energy prices

But the Iranians are getting bombed into the Stone Age so probably worth it
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on April 02, 2026, 02:58:05 PM
Amazon to add 3.5% fuel and logistics surcharge for sellers as Iran war drives up energy prices

But the Iranians are getting bombed into the Stone Age so probably worth it

I bet you didn’t rush here to post when Amazon added 5% in 2022 in the wake of gas going to $5 nationally
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on April 02, 2026, 07:05:42 PM
I bet you didn’t rush here to post when Amazon added 5% in 2022 in the wake of gas going to $5 nationally


So you're mad that other guy I didn't support was bad just like your guy?

If Arizona and UConn play in the Final, you'll come here and say well yeah neener neener Michigan lost so there!
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on April 16, 2026, 08:49:58 AM
S&P and Nasdaq continuing to set new highs. DJI back up near high of 50k. Strong jobs report and lower than expected inflation report. Supply lines for oil and LNG rerouting to US.  (All much to Tempo and Murph’s chagrin)
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on April 16, 2026, 11:23:54 AM
S&P and Nasdaq continuing to set new highs. DJI back up near high of 50k. Strong jobs report and lower than expected inflation report. Supply lines for oil and LNG rerouting to US.  (All much to Tempo and Murph’s chagrin)

Hope it holds. War is still a very bad policy.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Custard on April 16, 2026, 05:30:34 PM
Hope it holds. War is still a very bad policy.

Tempo told us war was good for the economy when this started. Then when the markets priced in uncertainty he said it was bad for the economy.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on April 16, 2026, 07:26:20 PM
Tempo told us war was good for the economy when this started. Then when the markets priced in uncertainty he said it was bad for the economy.

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-04-13/usda-wants-farmers-to-help-with-fertilizer-probe-as-prices-soar?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email&embedded-checkout=true

USDA probably won’t get help from farmers because the fertilizer price increase is fake news also they’ve bought all their fertilizer anyway amirite?

Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: murphstahoe on April 16, 2026, 07:27:54 PM
Tempo told us war was good for the economy when this started. Then when the markets priced in uncertainty he said it was bad for the economy.

Who said anything about the economy. I said “war is a bad policy”. This covers many facets of life.
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on April 16, 2026, 09:53:20 PM
Market futures aren’t exactly “the economy.”
Title: Re: Da Economy
Post by: Reacher on April 16, 2026, 09:54:16 PM
If dipshit hadn’t inadvertently closed the Strait of Hormuz, the markets wouldn’t be as bothered.