As Labor Day rolls around, President Trump is once again spotlighting the American worker. It’s a familiar scene for Americans who remember the first term of his presidency. This year, however, is especially noteworthy because gas prices are at a four-year record low of $3.19 a gallon—echoing back to the good ol’ days when Trump was at the helm. While many Americans head to the parade route in Erie, Pennsylvania, perhaps we all should be offering a nod to that plummeting price at the pump.
U.S. Labor Secretary Laura Chavez-Deremer took the opportunity to enlighten us on the changes in the labor market. She emphasized that these achievements are the result of doubling down on America First policies. Apparently, the administration couldn’t just stop at lowering gas prices. They decided to win over the heartland by getting rid of taxes on everything from tips to Social Security. Has anyone heard of a bonus for just showing up to work? Seems like it’s just around the corner!
Switching gears to the market and economy, everything, we are told, appears to be on the upswing. With GDP climbing at a rate of 3.3% annually, one would think that there couldn’t possibly be anyone left standing on the unemployment line. In fact, unemployment rates are steady, but more importantly, blue-collar wages are up by 1.4%. One wonders if we can’t hear the chants of “drill, baby, drill” somewhere in the distance. Consumer confidence is also soaring, with folks perhaps lining up to buy stock in whatever comes next.
Now, you might think the Secretary has time for just a quick phone interview before heading to the Labor Day festivities, but that couldn’t be more wrong. She’s on a 50-state tour to gauge what the actual American worker is experiencing. It adds a personal touch, don’t you think, to witness a Secretary interacting with submarine builders and firefighters alike? There’s no stone left unturned as she tackles diverse industries all across America. Seems to be a real workhorse approach, which is refreshing to hear in an era of constant social media distractions.
Despite belonging to what some might call an unusual coalition or a “Team of Rivals,” featuring the likes of RFK Jr., Laura Chavez-Deremer and her team bring a sense of authenticity. Each member of this administration, it seems, started from humble beginnings. From peaches to newspapers to lifeguards, they’ve had jobs just like the rest of us. Perhaps that’s why they’ve rolled up their sleeves to fight for the American public, even if that means sometimes getting their hands a little dirty with policy work. It’s all part of the plan, isn’t it—to get out there, leave D.C. behind, and actually listen to what Americans are saying. Trump’s team seems to believe that’s the secret sauce to a successful administration.