URGENT UPDATE: Jen Psaki has launched a scathing fact-check of former President Donald Trump‘s recent address, dismantling numerous false claims made during his speech announcing $1,776 “warrior dividends” aimed at addressing the affordability crisis. The analysis aired on MS NOW Wednesday evening and has rapidly gained attention for its sharp critique.
Psaki, who served as White House press secretary, emphasized the importance of accuracy in her commentary. “I just want to quickly fact-check just a few — I mean, there were so many in there,” she stated, highlighting Trump’s assertions about inflation, food prices, and his claimed influence over Congress.
During the address, Trump asserted that he is solely responsible for fixing the affordability crisis, placing blame on Democrats. However, Psaki quickly refuted this, noting, “Congress controls the power of the purse in the country, not the president.” She clarified that any checks issued would require congressional approval, even if Trump attempts to take credit for them.
Significantly, the Yale Budget Lab analysis revealed that Trump’s tariffs have cost American households an average of $1,700 this year, juxtaposing the announced $1,776 checks with a sobering reality for many families.
Psaki further dissected Trump’s claims regarding inflation. “Trump claimed that when he took office, inflation was the worst in 48 years,” she explained. “That’s not true. The truth is that inflation had been declining from its peak of 7 percent during the pandemic. But since Trump took office, it has basically flatlined at 3 percent.” She referenced a recent statement from Jerome Powell, chair of the Federal Reserve, confirming that inflation levels remain elevated.
Turning to grocery prices, Psaki pointed out the contradiction in Trump’s statements about lowering costs. “Trump’s own Agriculture Department released a report showing that food prices are rising faster than inflation,” she noted, emphasizing that consumers are feeling the impact firsthand as they shop.
In another contentious claim, Trump stated that he has brought gas prices down to $1.99 a gallon. However, Psaki highlighted the current national average gasoline price of $2.91 according to AAA, which was significantly higher when Trump took office at $3.11 per gallon.
Psaki’s analysis serves as a critical reminder of the responsibility public figures have to provide truthful information, especially during ongoing economic challenges. “That is just a little taste and flavor, and I’m sure you all have your own lists at home,” she concluded, indicating the potential for even more discrepancies in Trump’s statements.
This live fact-check has sparked widespread discussion online, prompting viewers to scrutinize the details of Trump’s claims more closely. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the implications of such statements on public perception and policy decisions are profound.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as it unfolds. The stakes are high, and the truth matters now more than ever.
