Instead, the president did what he always does at these events: In remarks delivered in a casino, he peddled a variety of foolish claims about the subject at hand while veering into ugly nonsense about immigrants, windmills and transgender people. (Given the seriousness of the subject and his own unfortunate record in the casino business, the White House probably could’ve chosen a better venue.)

The Republican did, however, make an unexpected argument to Americans concerned about affordability and the cost of living.

Trump at his speech on the economy: "You can give up certain products. You can give up pencils…They only need one or two. They don't need that many…You don't need 37 dolls for your daughter. Two or three is nice, but you don't need 37 dolls."

— The Bulwark (@thebulwark.com) 2025-12-10T01:48:57.831Z

....Complicating matters is the fact that while the Republican expects Americans to make sacrifices in response to his failing agenda, Trump doesn’t appear personally willing to make comparable sacrifices of his own.

On the contrary, the incumbent president remains focused on his new marble bathroom, his ever-expanding plans for a wildly unnecessary White House ballroom and his frequent trips to Florida, where he hangs out at the glorified country club he owns and profits from, palling around with his extremely wealthy customers at “Great Gatsby”–themed soirees.

It’s something to keep in mind as Trump tells Americans to buy fewer toys for their kids two weeks before Christmas.