In central Indiana, a full-course meal at a fine dining restaurant might cost around $200—tip and wine included, but no dessert. While my readers in NYC or LA might find that amusingly modest, the analogy serves a broader point: Across the country, many of us are hesitating before ordering dessert, not because it isn’t appealing, but because we’re recalibrating what constitutes a satisfying meal in today’s economy.
Despite robust indicators—record low unemployment, dynamic job creation, and a thriving stock market—many Americans feel they can’t afford the ‘dessert’ of the economic meal. This sentiment persists even as the metrics paint a picture of an economy that is, by all traditional measures, flourishing under President Biden.
This disconnect between perception and reality is at the heart of our national economic dialogue. While many are focused on what seems missing—perhaps the dessert or an extra indulgence—we’re not fully appreciating the quality and substance of the main course that’s before us.
President Biden’s tenure has been marked by economic resilience. The administration has navigated unprecedented challenges—from pandemic recovery to supply chain disruptions—with policies aimed at bolstering the economy for the long haul. Yet, the public sentiment often misses these achievements, fixated perhaps on what feels unattainable.
It raises an essential question about our economic expectations: Have we become so accustomed to looking for the sweet finish that we overlook the sustenance provided throughout the meal? The strength of an economy shouldn’t only be measured by the extras it can afford but also by its foundational stability and growth.
This is a moment for reflection. It’s crucial to recognize the robustness of the meal already on our plate. Yes, life is short, and desserts are delightful, but the health of our economy—and our appreciation of it—shouldn’t hinge solely on the availability of extras. It should be grounded in a recognition of the solid, nourishing main course we currently enjoy.
As we continue to discuss economic policies and their impact, let’s adjust our focus. Let’s appreciate the full spread of the Biden economy—not just for the desserts it can or cannot afford us, but for the comprehensive, nutritious meal it provides. This balanced perspective might just change how satisfied we feel as we push back from the table.