Category: Poverty

Trump Sought Vast Budget Cuts. Congress Granted Few.

The New York Times – Business:
In a series of deals over the past three months, lawmakers rejected some of the president’s most aggressive attempts to whittle down the government.
Storm Poses Big Threats to Power Grids Across U.S.

Managers of electric grids say freezing temperatures and ice and snow could lead to power outages in many places, potentially leaving millions in the dark.
Why China Is Suddenly Obsessed With American Poverty

State media, embracing the gaming phrase “kill line,” is asserting China’s political superiority over the United States, deflecting focus on China’s own economic challenges.
Minimum Wage Rises in Some States as Workers Struggle with Basic Costs

This year, for the first time, more Americans will earn a minimum wage of $15 per hour or higher than will earn the federal minimum of $7.25 per hour.
Supreme Court Increasingly Favors the Rich, Economists Say

A new study found that the court’s Republican appointees voted for the wealthier side in cases 70 percent of the time in 2022, up from 45 percent in 1953.
Retirement 2026 by the Numbers

As the new year begins, savings have hit unprecedented levels, but rising health care costs and growing poverty make retirement unaffordable for many.
Guinea Goes to Polls as Ruling Junta Seeks Legitimacy

Whoever wins faces the daunting task of feeding the West African country’s poor and navigating the interests of global powers seeking critical minerals, analysts say.
Heating Costs Expected to Rise 9.2% This Winter

Colder weather and rising electricity and fuel costs will lead to a big jump in costs for individuals, according to estimates from a group representing state energy officials.
Social Security Disability, a Financial Protection for Some Workers, Is at a Crossroads

The benefits provide important economic support for older people who cannot work. The White House recently halted changes to the program that had worried some experts.
Trump Accounts, Baby Bonds: Giving Directly to Kids Is an Idea Right and Left Could Love

Michael and Susan Dell’s $6.25 billion donation to child savings accounts fits a trend: giving with no strings attached. In some ways, it’s a bipartisan philosophy.
By Not Funding Food Stamps, Trump Risks Lasting Damage to Safety Net

For the poorest Americans, the expected end to the longest shutdown in history has left doubt and anxiety around the benefits known as SNAP.
As Low-Income Shoppers Tighten Belts Further, Businesses Worry

A delay in SNAP benefits mixed with a decline in foot traffic has many stores, restaurants and food producers concerned about sales.