A stark contrast emerged when examining economic data from the Trump and Biden administrations, revealed through a focused report on inflation. The numbers painted a clear picture: overall inflation rose 4.3% during Biden’s first year, significantly higher than the 1.6% increase seen under Trump.
The impact on everyday expenses was equally pronounced. Grocery prices surged 3.8% under Biden, compared to a 1.3% increase during Trump’s initial year. But the most dramatic difference appeared at the gas pump, where prices climbed a staggering 24.4% under the current administration, while actually *decreasing* by 5.4% during the previous one.
The current administration appears to be acknowledging the growing affordability crisis, particularly in housing. Officials are reportedly working to streamline regulations for construction projects, hoping that increased supply will drive down prices through basic economic principles of supply and demand.
However, these factual presentations may face an uphill battle against deeply entrenched biases. A growing concern among mental health professionals suggests that a significant portion of the population is struggling to process information objectively when it comes to a particular former president.
Jonathan Alpert, a psychotherapist writing for the Wall Street Journal, has observed a disturbing trend: roughly three-quarters of his patients exhibit what he terms “obsessive political preoccupation.” This isn’t about reasoned debate or policy discussion; it’s an emotional reaction that dominates their thoughts and impairs their well-being.
Alpert described patients launching into intense, emotionally charged rants about the former president within minutes of beginning a therapy session. These outbursts aren’t focused on specific policies, but rather represent a visceral, overwhelming emotional response.
One patient, for example, found herself unable to enjoy a vacation, constantly triggered by news or even glimpses of the former president on her devices. This illustrates the pervasive nature of the preoccupation and its ability to disrupt even moments of personal respite.
The phenomenon isn’t simply a matter of strong political opinions; it’s reaching a point where it’s actively damaging mental health, creating a cycle of anxiety and emotional distress for a substantial number of Americans.
