Image for alarming drop in consumer confidence

THREAD: alarming drop in consumer confidence

LifeLine™ Media threads use our sophisticated algorithms to construct a thread around any topic you want, providing you with a detailed timeline, analysis, and related articles.

Chatter

What the world is saying!

. . .

News Timeline

Up arrow blue
TRUMP And HARRIS Neck-And-Neck: What’s Behind the Poll Shocker?

TRUMP And HARRIS Neck-And-Neck: What’s Behind the Poll Shocker?

Recent polls show a tight race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, with both candidates nearly tied. Just last month, Harris was ahead in election and favorability ratings. Now, her lead is gone, sparking questions about why voters are changing their minds.

NBC’s Savannah Guthrie talked with analyst Steve Kornacki about this shift. He explained how Harris’s favorability ratings have reversed. Last month, she had a 48% positive rating compared to Trump’s steady numbers. Now her positive rating has fallen to 43%, while her negative rating jumped to 49%.

Kornacki noted that this change brings Harris’s ratings closer to Trump’s figures. He also mentioned an interesting twist about public views on Trump’s presidency. Recent polling shows that 44% of voters think Trump’s policies helped their families more than during his time in office.

Biden’s BORDER Crisis: SHOCKING Surge in Illegal Crossings Alarms Americans

Biden’s BORDER Crisis: SHOCKING Surge in Illegal Crossings Alarms Americans

The border crisis under President Biden has reached alarming levels. New data shows a shocking surge in illegal crossings, leaving many Americans concerned. The situation at the southern border is deteriorating, with record numbers of migrants attempting to enter the country.

Border Patrol agents are overwhelmed as they try to manage the influx. Many believe that Biden’s policies are too lenient and encourage more illegal immigration. Critics argue that stronger measures are needed to secure the border and protect American citizens.

Local communities near the border are feeling the impact firsthand. Increased crime rates and strained resources have residents worried about their safety and well-being. Many are calling for immediate action to address these pressing issues before they worsen further.

As this crisis continues, it’s clear that a change in strategy is necessary. Americans want effective solutions that will restore order and security at our borders, ensuring a safer future for everyone involved. The time for decisive action is now, before things spiral out of control even more dramatically than they already have.

Joe Biden: The President The White House

Biden’s BORDER Policy SHOCKS Americans: Crime Rates Soar

President Biden’s border policy has led to a surge in illegal crossings. Many Americans are worried about the rising crime rates linked to this influx. Local communities are feeling the impact, and some residents say they no longer feel safe in their own neighborhoods.

Critics argue that Biden’s approach is too lenient and lacks proper enforcement. They believe this has encouraged more people to cross illegally, putting a strain on resources and law enforcement.

Supporters of stricter border control point out that crime rates have increased in areas with high numbers of illegal immigrants. They call for immediate action to secure the border and protect American citizens from further harm.

The debate over immigration policy continues, but one thing is clear: many Americans are deeply concerned about their safety and the future of their communities under current policies.

Biden’s BORDER Crisis: SHOCKING Numbers Reveal the Truth

The border crisis under President Biden is getting worse. New data shows a record number of illegal crossings. Many Americans are worried about the impact on our country’s safety and economy.

In August alone, over 200,000 illegal immigrants were caught crossing the southern border. This is a huge increase from previous months. Border Patrol agents are overwhelmed and struggling to keep up with the surge.

Critics say Biden’s policies are to blame for this crisis. They argue that his administration has been too lenient on immigration laws. This has encouraged more people to try and enter the U.S. illegally, putting strain on resources and communities near the border.

Supporters of stricter immigration laws believe that tougher measures are needed now more than ever. They call for stronger enforcement at the border and policies that discourage illegal crossings altogether. The situation remains tense as America watches how this issue will unfold in the coming months under Biden’s leadership.

SOUTH KOREAN Election Shocker: Voters Lean Left in Historic Turn

SOUTH KOREAN Election Shocker: Voters Lean Left in Historic Turn

South Korean voters, upset by the economic slump, are showing their disapproval towards President Yoon Suk-yeol and his ruling People Power Party (PPP). Early exit polls indicate a dramatic tilt in the National Assembly, with the opposition DP/DUP coalition on track to win between 168 and 193 of the 300 seats. This would leave Yoon’s PPP and its partners trailing with just 87-111 seats.

A record-breaking turnout of 67 percent — the highest for a midterm election since 1992 — reflects widespread voter engagement. South Korea’s unique proportional representation system aims to give smaller parties a chance but has resulted in a crowded field that confuses many voters.

PPP leader Han Dong-hoon has publicly recognized the disappointing exit poll figures. He pledged to honor the electorate’s decision and wait for the final tally. The election results could mark a pivotal change in South Korea’s political landscape, hinting at broader shifts ahead.

This electoral outcome underscores growing public discontent with current economic policies and signals a desire for change among South Korean voters, potentially reshaping the nation’s policy direction in years to come.

REFORM UK RISES: Public Discontent Over Immigration Policies Fuels Momentum

REFORM UK RISES: Public Discontent Over Immigration Policies Fuels Momentum

Reform UK is gaining momentum, largely fueled by its firm stance against “unchecked immigration,” as stated by the party’s deputy chair. This surge in support comes in light of recent data from Ipsos Mori and British Future, a pro-immigration think tank. The figures highlight public dissatisfaction with the government’s management of borders, indicating a potential shift in the UK’s political landscape.

Despite Labour currently leading in the polls, Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party is outpacing the Conservatives when it comes to trust and policy matters. This could serve as an alarm bell for Tory politicians who have been at Britain’s political helm for two centuries. Ben Habib, Deputy Leader of Reform UK, attributes this shift to what he perceives as the Conservative Party neglecting their own voter base.

According to Ipsos Mori research, 69% of Britons express dissatisfaction with immigration policies while only 9% are content. Of those dissatisfied individuals, over half (52%) believe migration should be reduced while just 17% think it should increase. Specific grievances include inadequate measures to prevent channel crossings (54%) and high immigration numbers (51%). Less concern was shown towards creating negative environments for migrants (28%) or poor treatment of asylum seekers (25%).

Habib asserts that this widespread discontent signifies a historic realignment in politics

BRITISH FARMERS Revolt: Unfair Trade Deals and Deceptive Food Labels Undermine Local Agriculture

BRITISH FARMERS Revolt: Unfair Trade Deals and Deceptive Food Labels Undermine Local Agriculture

London’s streets echoed with the voices of British farmers, expressing their deep concerns over free trade agreements and deceptive food labels. They argue these deals, inked by Tory governments post-Brexit with nations such as Australia, Canada, Japan, Mexico and New Zealand, are a blow to local farming.

The farmers highlight a stark contrast in standards between them and their international competitors. They are expected to adhere to stricter labour, environmental and health regulations which inadvertently allows foreign goods to undercut local produce prices. The issue is further amplified as European farmers gain access to UK markets thanks to generous government subsidies and the use of cheap migrant labour.

Adding insult to injury is a policy that allows foreign food repackaged in the UK to sport the British flag. This tactic muddies the waters for local farmers trying to set their products apart from overseas competition.

Liz Webster, founder of Save British Farming voiced her frustration at the protest stating that UK farmers are “completely disadvantaged”. She accused the government of reneging on its 2019 promise for a beneficial deal with the EU for British agriculture.

TRUMP SURGES Ahead in Michigan: Biden’s Struggle to Secure Base Exposed

TRUMP SURGES Ahead in Michigan: Biden’s Struggle to Secure Base Exposed

A recent trial ballot in Michigan has revealed a surprising lead for Trump over Biden, with 47 percent favoring the former president compared to 44 percent for the incumbent. This result falls within the survey’s ±3 percent margin of error, leaving nine percent of voters still undecided.

In a more complex five-way trial ballot test, Trump maintains his lead at 44 percent against Biden’s 42 percent. The remaining votes are split among independent Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Green Party candidate Dr. Jill Stein, and independent Cornel West.

Steve Mitchell, president of Mitchell Research, attributes Trump’s lead to Biden’s lackluster support from African Americans and younger voters. He forecasts a nail-biting contest ahead as the victory will likely hinge on which candidate can rally their base more effectively.

In a head-to-head choice between Trump and Biden, an overwhelming 90 percent of Republican Michiganders back Trump while only 84 percent of Democrats support Biden. This poll report underscores an uncomfortable situation for Biden as he loses a significant 12 percent chunk of his vote to former President Trump.

DEFENSE BILL Slashed: Allies Fear for US Reliability

DEFENSE BILL Slashed: Allies Fear for US Reliability

The House gave the green light to a $1.2 trillion defense bill on Friday, which includes crucial aid for Ukraine. However, the significantly trimmed budget and prolonged delays have left allies like Lithuania doubting the U.S.'s reliability.

The conflict in Ukraine, instigated by Russia, has been ongoing for over two years. While American backing for Kyiv has slightly lessened, European allies stand firm. Gabrielius Landsbergis, Lithuanian Foreign Minister, voiced concerns over Ukraine’s capacity to hold its front line based on the quantity of ammunition and equipment received.

Landsbergis also expressed apprehension about Russia’s potential future actions if Putin continues without restraint. He portrayed Russia as a “massive, aggressive empire with a bloodthirsty nature” that inspires other dictators globally.

This is an incredibly unsettling time," concluded Landsbergis underlining the worldwide repercussions of Russia’s unchecked aggression.

ANC on SHAKY Ground: South Africa’s Opposition Parties Gaining Momentum

ANC on SHAKY Ground: South Africa’s Opposition Parties Gaining Momentum

Recent polling data indicates a potential shift in South Africa’s political scene, the likes of which haven’t been seen since 1994. The ruling party, the African National Congress (ANC), has experienced a decline in support from 44% to 39% since November 2022.

On the other hand, the opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) has seen its share rise from 23% to a notable 27%. A newcomer on the scene, the MK Party, has made an impressive debut with a surprising 13%, while support for the radical Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party has dwindled to just 10%.

This changing landscape could potentially pave the way for DA to form a majority coalition with other parties excluding ANC and EFF. This tactic proved successful in Cape Town’s municipal elections back in 2006. Despite ANC’s historical appeal due to its instrumental role in ending apartheid, ongoing issues such as electricity and water shortages, high crime rates, and rampant corruption have strained voters’ loyalty.

The shifting political climate suggests that voters are seeking change and are willing to look beyond traditional party lines. This could lead to significant changes in South Africa’s political landscape moving forward.

GREEN AGENDA Hits Hard: Ofgem Warns of Financial Burden on Low-Income Consumers

GREEN AGENDA Hits Hard: Ofgem Warns of Financial Burden on Low-Income Consumers

The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) sounded an alarm on Monday. It cautioned that the shift towards a “Net Zero” carbon emissions economy could unfairly impact low-income consumers. These individuals might lack the financial resources to acquire government-approved technology or modify their lifestyle habits.

In the past year alone, debts from energy consumers have skyrocketed by 50%, amassing a total of £3 billion. Ofgem voiced grave concerns about struggling households’ limited resilience to future price shocks. The regulator also highlighted that the burden of recovering bad debts could pose serious threats to the retail energy sector.

Economic difficulties have already pushed British consumers into rationing their energy consumption. This has led to “harms associated with living in a cold, damp home,” potentially triggering an increase in mental health issues rates.

Tim Jarvis, Ofgem’s director general, underscored the necessity for a long-term strategy to manage escalating debt levels and shield struggling consumers from future price shocks. He mentioned that measures such as altering standing charges for prepayment meter customers and tightening requirements on suppliers had been implemented.

Our Refill Program About Us The Body Shop

BODY SHOP Faces Uncertain Future: Insolvency Administrators Step In Amid Financial Crisis

The Body Shop, a renowned British beauty and cosmetics retailer, has enlisted the help of insolvency administrators. This move follows years of financial struggles that have plagued the company. Established in 1976 as a single store, The Body Shop has grown into one of Britain’s most iconic high street retailers. Now, its future hangs in the balance.

FRP, the appointed administrators for The Body Shop, have revealed that past owners’ financial mismanagement has contributed to an extended period of hardship for the company. These issues are exacerbated by a challenging trading environment within the broader retail sector.

Just weeks before this announcement, European private equity firm Aurelius took over The Body Shop. Known for their expertise in revitalizing struggling companies, Aurelius now faces a significant challenge with this latest acquisition.

Anita Roddick and her husband established The Body Shop in 1976 with ethical consumerism at its core. Roddick earned herself the title “Queen of Green” by prioritizing corporate social responsibility and environmentalism long before they became fashionable business practices. Today however, her legacy is threatened by ongoing financial difficulties.

Britain's post-Brexit trade talks with Canada break down as they ...

UK-CANADA Trade Talks GRIND to a Halt: The Beef and Cheese Battle That’s Costing Billions

The UK government has unexpectedly put the brakes on post-Brexit trade talks with Canada. This sudden move follows a two-year stalemate over beef and cheese imports and exports, which began after Britain officially left the European Union.

Trade between these nations, valued at roughly 26 billion pounds ($33 billion) per year, has mostly persisted under the initial agreement made while Britain was still an EU member. However, Canadian negotiators are feeling the heat from their own beef industry and local cheesemakers. The former is pushing for access to the UK market for hormone-fed beef, while cheesemakers are raising alarms about tariff-free imports of British cheese.

The privilege of tariff-free British cheese exports came to a halt at the close of 2023 when a temporary agreement expired. This change led to a staggering 245% duty hike for British producers. Canada’s trade minister Mary Ng firmly stated that Canada “will never agree to a deal that isn’t beneficial for our workers, farmers and businesses.” Minette Batters, president of the National Farmers’ Union in England and Wales praised Britain’s resistance against hormone-fed beef imports.

Despite this hiccup in negotiations, the UK government remains open-minded about future discussions. However, any significant progress appears unlikely at present.

A Christmas rush to get passports to leave Zimbabwe is fed by ...

PASSPORT PANIC: Zimbabweans Race Against Time Amid Looming Price Hike Fear

In Zimbabwe, currently grappling with economic woes, the most sought-after Christmas gift isn’t a gadget or toy, but a passport. The capital city’s passport office in Harare is teeming with citizens hoping to secure their travel documents before an expected price surge in the New Year. The looming increase and deteriorating economic conditions are driving a spike in migration.

Nolan Mukona, a 49-year-old father of three, was among those who rose at dawn to join the queue at the passport office. Despite his early start, he was greeted by over 100 people already waiting when he arrived at 5 a.m. “The only thing that can make my Christmas cheerful is if I manage to get a passport,” Mukona shared.

At present, passports cost $120 — an amount already burdensome for many Zimbabweans struggling to meet basic needs. However, according to 2024 budget proposals from the finance minister, these fees will rise to $150 in January — reduced from an initially proposed $200 after public backlash.

Over recent decades, millions of Zimbabweans have fled their homeland due to its crumbling economy. This exodus has accelerated recently as optimism for improvement following Robert Mugabe’s ousting from power in 2017 continues to wane.

UK INFLATION TUMBLES to 39%: Central Bank May Slash Rates Sooner Than Predicted

UK INFLATION TUMBLES to 39%: Central Bank May Slash Rates Sooner Than Predicted

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) recently announced a surprising drop in UK inflation to 3.9% in November, a decrease from the previous month’s 4.6%. This dip, larger than what financial markets had forecasted, marks the lowest inflation level since September 2021.

This decline is primarily attributed to falling fuel and food prices according to the ONS. However, despite this optimistic news, the Bank of England’s primary interest rate remains at a staggering high of 5.25%, not seen for over a decade and a half.

Governor Andrew Bailey hinted that this stringent interest rate policy might continue for some time. Yet Samuel Tombs, chief U.K economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics suggests an alternative view — that this sharp fall in inflation could trigger an earlier-than-expected cut in interest rates; perhaps as early as the first half of next year.

While elevated interest rates initially helped curb inflation sparked by supply chain disruptions and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, they have also put pressure on consumer spending and slowed economic growth. As such there are growing worries that maintaining high rates could inflict unnecessary damage on the economy.

YOUTHFUL Hostility Towards Israel EXPOSED: What the Recent Polls Are Telling Us

YOUTHFUL Hostility Towards Israel EXPOSED: What the Recent Polls Are Telling Us

A survey conducted on December 13-14 involving 2,034 registered voters revealed a disturbing trend. Young people displayed significantly more hostility towards Israel than any other age group. This finding coincides with a rise in antisemitic protests on university campuses and major cities.

The poll also unveiled some seemingly contradictory responses among young participants. A substantial 73% agreed that the October 7 attack was an act of terrorism, while 66% concurred that Hamas’s intent was genocidal. Moreover, an overwhelming majority of 76% believed that Hamas had committed crimes against women, including rape.

Interestingly, young people seemed more informed than older generations on one particular issue — Palestinian support for Hamas. A majority of those aged between 18-24 (64%) believed that “Hamas is supported by the majority of Palestinians in Gaza”, compared to just 34% overall. This perception aligns with recent polls indicating broad Palestinian backing for Hamas.

Joel B. Pollak, Senior Editor-at-Large at Breitbart News and host of Breitbart News Sunday on Sirius XM Patriot reported these survey results.

Bipartisan Committee CALLS for END of China’s Trade Status: A Potential Jolt to US Economy

Bipartisan Committee CALLS for END of China’s Trade Status: A Potential Jolt to US Economy

A bipartisan committee, led by Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI) and Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), has been studying the economic effects of China on the US for a year. The investigation centered on job market changes, manufacturing shifts, and national security concerns since China joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2001.

The committee released a report this Tuesday recommending President Joe Biden’s administration and Congress to implement nearly 150 policies to counteract China’s economic influence. One significant suggestion is to cancel China’s permanent normal trade relations status (PNTR) with the U.S., a status endorsed by former President George W. Bush in 2001.

The report argues that granting PNTR to China did not bring anticipated benefits for the US or trigger expected reforms in China. It asserts that this has led to a loss of vital U.S. economic leverage and inflicted damage on U.S industry, workers, and manufacturers due to unfair trade practices.

The committee proposes shifting China into a new tariff category that reinstates U.S economic leverage while reducing dependence on Chinese

Lack of Fairness in Receiving Public Defense Services: Study ...

DEATH PENALTY On Trial: Americans Voice Unfairness, Report Unveils Shocking Shift

The U.S. death penalty is under fire as more Americans express concerns about its fairness. This change in public sentiment is leading to the increasing marginalization of capital punishment in the country, according to a recent annual report.

However, it remains unclear whether this waning support will result in the end of capital punishment. While some experts anticipate its complete abolition soon, others predict a slow decline rather than an immediate vanishing.

In 2023, only 24 individuals were executed and 21 were sentenced to death. This marks the ninth year in a row with fewer than 30 executions and less than 50 death sentences. Only five states — Texas, Florida, Missouri, Oklahoma and Alabama — carried out executions this year; the smallest number in two decades.

A Gallup poll from October disclosed that half of Americans believe capital punishment is unjustly applied. This level of doubt represents the highest since Gallup started surveying this topic back in 2000.

STATE DEPARTMENT’S ‘Worldwide Caution’: The Shocking Implications for American Holiday Travelers

STATE DEPARTMENT’S ‘Worldwide Caution’: The Shocking Implications for American Holiday Travelers

As the holiday season draws near, the State Department’s recent “Worldwide Caution” travel advisory has sparked anxiety among many Americans. However, experts reassure that conditions in most popular tourist spots remain stable.

James Hess, a professor at the School of Security and Global Studies at American Public University System, encourages alertness during international travel. Despite a seemingly delicate global security scene due to the Israel-Hamas conflict, he believes that Americans are savvy travelers.

The advisory came in response to escalating conflict in Gaza and was reissued last week. It cautions about potential terrorist attacks or violent incidents targeting U.S. citizens and interests overseas.

Despite these warnings, Hess underscores that tourism is a vital economic lifeline for many nations who strive to make American tourists feel secure during their visits.

UK inflation dips slightly to 10.1% | Business News | Sky News

UK Inflation DEFIES Predictions, STAYS at 67%: What’s Next for the Economy?

The UK’s inflation rate held steady at 6.7% in September, flying in the face of economists’ predictions for a slight decrease. The Office for National Statistics highlighted that while food and drink prices dipped, they were counterbalanced by an uptick in fuel costs.

This persistent inflation rate is more than triple the Bank of England’s target of 2%. Despite this, it is not expected that the bank will hike interest rates during its November policy meeting. Instead, it seems set to keep its main borrowing rate at a peak not seen in 15 years — a hefty 5.25%.

James Smith from the Resolution Foundation think tank offered his perspective on this economic puzzle: “For now, progress on reducing inflation has hit a roadblock.” He anticipates a significant drop to below 5% next month as energy prices are projected to fall for most consumers.

In response to price surges triggered by pandemic-induced supply chain disruptions and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine — both factors contributing heavily to increased food and energy costs — the Bank of England has been steadily cranking up interest rates from near zero levels.

Down arrow red

Video

ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT on Trump Thwarted: Heroic Action Saves Lives

A suspect armed with a weapon tried to target former President Donald Trump during a public appearance in October 2023. The individual never had a line of sight and was unable to fire any shots. This is the second assassination attempt on Trump, raising serious security concerns.

The Secret Service and local law enforcement quickly apprehended the suspect, who was found with a firearm but did not discharge it. Their swift action prevented what could have been catastrophic, ensuring Trump’s safety and that of those present.

Ongoing investigations aim to determine the suspect’s motive and any affiliations. Authorities are also reviewing Trump’s security protocols to identify potential lapses and enhance future measures. This incident highlights the persistent risks faced by high-profile political figures like Trump.

Public reactions vary, with supporters relieved over Trump’s safety while critics cite the divisive political climate as a factor. The incident has reignited debates about political violence and the need for rigorous security for public officials as details continue to emerge from law enforcement agencies.

More Videos