πΊπΈ The Affordability Crisis: American Citizens Last?
Trump and GOP promised “America First!”
The promise of the "America First" agenda and a pledge to lower costs rings hollow for millions of Americans now caught in an accelerating affordability crisis. While the current administration prioritized massive tax cuts and championed cuts to vital social programs, the reality on the ground is punishing: Low wages remain stagnant even as the cost of living continues to surge.
Inflation, currently running at 3.0% annually for the 12 months ending September 2025, continues to drive up prices for essentials like shelter, medical care, and food. Compounding this pain, the administration has enacted major legislation that is forecast to cut over $1 trillion from Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) over the next decade. These cuts—which impose new work requirements and restrict eligibility—are set to strip health coverage from millions and reduce crucial food assistance for the working poor, exacerbating the insecurity caused by stagnant wages.
Meanwhile, the very tariffs touted by the GOP as a tool to protect American jobs are now widely acknowledged by economists to be taxes on U.S. consumers, directly contributing to the higher cost of goods, from apparel to household furnishings.
This domestic struggle for survival is sharply contrasted by actions abroad. At a moment when countless families are losing their health insurance and struggling to afford groceries, the administration has authorized and facilitated a $40 billion financial package for the beleaguered economy of a foreign nation (Argentina), with $20 billion coming directly from the U.S. Treasury in a move criticized for prioritizing a foreign dictator's political survival over the needs of American citizens.
This is the backdrop against which corporate America is now launching a devastating wave of layoffs.
π Major Corporate Layoffs and Workforce Reductions
The following companies have announced significant workforce reductions, often citing restructuring, cost-cutting, and a pivot toward Artificial Intelligence (AI) initiatives:
| Company | Announced Job Cuts (Approximate) | Key Reason / Context |
| Intel | Over 15,000 to 21,000 roles (2024) | Part of a major turnaround and cost-reduction effort, aiming to save billions amid market share losses. |
| UPS | 20,000 to 48,000 positions | Eliminated roles as part of broad cost-cutting measures and restructuring to achieve financial goals. |
| Verizon | Over 13,000 to 15,000 employees | Restructuring to simplify operations and "reorient" the company, which includes a voluntary separation program. |
| Microsoft | Over 15,000 roles (2024) | Multiple rounds of cuts across divisions, including gaming (Xbox/Activision Blizzard), Azure, and Mission Engineering. |
| Amazon | Over 14,000 corporate jobs | Cuts across AWS, Twitch, and advertising as the company ramps up spending on AI while trimming costs elsewhere. |
| HP | 4,000 to 6,000 employees | Streamlining operations and adopting AI to increase productivity, aiming for $1 billion in savings by 2028. |
| Tesla | Approximately 14,000 employees (10% of workforce) | Global workforce reduction while maintaining core AI and autonomy R&D teams. |
| Cisco | Over 9,500 positions | Two major rounds of cuts as part of a reorganization focused on infrastructure and security. |
| General Motors (GM) | Approximately 1,700 workers | Adjusting to slowing demand, particularly for electric vehicles, and production changes in Michigan and Ohio. |
| Paramount | Approximately 2,000 employees (10% of workforce) | Restructuring following its merger and divestitures of international assets. |
Sector-Specific Layoffs
* Food/Manufacturing: Tyson Foods is laying off 3,212 workers with the closure of its beef processing plant in Lexington, Nebraska, around January 20, 2026, citing a shortage of cattle and economic conditions.
* Retail: Walmart has announced cuts, particularly affecting corporate and e-commerce positions, as part of a restructuring to simplify operations.
* Store Closures: Walmart is also closing several locations in 2024 across states including California, Georgia (Atlanta), Maryland (Towson), and Ohio (Columbus), typically due to financial underperformance.
* Pharmaceutical/Biotech: Companies like Bristol Myers Squibb planned to lay off about 6% of its workforce (approx. 2,200 employees) due to patent expirations and a need for restructuring.
π Core Reasons Driving Layoffs
π€ Automation and Strategic Restructuring
* Rapid Integration of AI: Many companies, particularly in tech, are laying off workers in non-core areas while simultaneously ramping up investment in AI initiatives. This suggests that AI and automation are either replacing certain roles or forcing a strategic realignment of the workforce toward new, high-value skills.
* Post-Pandemic Correction: Companies that overhired during the pandemic's peak demand are now "right-sizing" their workforce to align with normalized growth and profitability expectations.
π Economic and Market Volatility
* Economic Uncertainty: Volatility from high inflation, rising interest rates, and geopolitical tensions creates unpredictability, leading companies to prioritize cost reduction through workforce cuts.
* Shifts in Consumer Spending: Slowing demand in specific sectors, such as the cooling market for Electric Vehicles (affecting GM and Tesla), forces cost-cutting.
* High Operational Costs: Rising costs for materials, labor, and energy push companies to reduce expenses, making payroll reduction one of the most immediate avenues for savings.
π― Conclusion: Who Pays the Price?
The data confirms a chilling reality: as major corporations shed tens of thousands of American jobs to cut costs and embrace AI, the government simultaneously imposes cuts to the very safety nets—Medicaid and SNAP—that are designed to catch falling workers. The result is a perfect storm for the American worker, where they are laid off by corporations seeking efficiency and then abandoned by a government more concerned with a foreign nation's financial health. The "America First" slogan has been inverted, becoming a harsh economic reality where U.S. citizens are clearly not the priority.
π Final Verdict: The Corporate Handout and the American Worker
The cycle of massive corporate layoffs detailed above—driven by cost-cutting, "right-sizing," and the pivot to AI—is not occurring in a vacuum. It is being subsidized by the very political agenda that promised to put American workers first.
The reality is that while American families face crippling inflation, stagnant wages, and the elimination of safety nets like SNAP and Medicaid, the richest corporations and individuals are enjoying unprecedented financial relief.
This outcome is a direct consequence of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the signature legislative achievement of the previous Republican administration. This Act slashed the corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21%, resulting in trillions of dollars in savings for the most profitable corporations. The promise was that this windfall would be reinvested in American workers through higher wages and new jobs.
The data tells a different story:
* The Layoff Cycle: Companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and Intel, which benefited immensely from these tax breaks, are now shedding tens of thousands of jobs and spending billions on stock buybacks—a practice that disproportionately enriches executives and wealthy shareholders.
* The Stagnant Wage Trap: Despite record profits and massive corporate tax savings, wage growth for the average worker has barely kept pace with, and often lagged behind, the rising cost of living.
* The Transfer of Wealth: The GOP's agenda has effectively created a system where profits are privatized and the costs are socialized. Corporations reap record tax savings and boost profits by laying off workers, all while the burden of supporting those newly unemployed workers falls onto a shrinking, deliberately cut-back public safety net.
This is the ultimate betrayal of the American worker: a political machine that has simultaneously stripped away the social floor beneath them while handing a golden parachute to the wealthy corporations who profit off their backs. The American worker is not just being laid off; they are footing the bill for their own unemployment.
Are We Art?
https://michaelsvoice.wordpress.com/2025/02/06/are-we-art-2/
"Thank you for visiting my site and taking the time to read and share my content. Your support means a lot and helps me continue to provide valuable information."
The Loan Forgiveness Double Standard: Why are some loans forgiven and others blocked?
Hidden Costs of Trump's Tariffs and Spineless GOP Actually Costing Us!
We Are the Chorus—Not Just the Crowd
https://milesvoice.com/2025/10/26/we-are-the-chorus-not-just-the-crowd/
No Kings, No Trump, No to Fascists!
https://milesvoice.com/2025/10/21/no-kings-no-trump-no-to-fascists/
Links
Join our vibrant community and ignite your journey toward better living! Subscribe to my YouTube channels for free content on wellness. Follow my social media for empowering insights on fitness, mindfulness, and personal growth. Everything you need to inspire your day is just a click away. If you want to take it a step further, small contributions help fuel my passion. They support the production of even more quality content. Jump in now to learn, connect, and thrive while playing a vital role in growing our creative family.
Thank you for your engagement, likes, follows, and shares! I'm truly grateful for your support on this wellness journey. Please note that I incorporate affiliate marketing links into my posts. This helps fund the creation of future content and ensures I continue providing valuable information.
Discover a holistic approach to wellness, learning, and personal growth with Michael's diverse platforms but start the journey at ThriveWellForLife.com. ThriveWell for Life is a holistic wellness platform. It empowers individuals to embrace natural living, personal growth, and sustainable health. These elements contribute to longevity. A platform dedicated to holistic wellness, fostering natural living, personal growth, and sustainable health to promote longevity. The website offers transformative content, including an eBook, blog, podcast, and courses, guiding users through nutrition, movement, mindfulness, and sustainability. ThriveWell for Life also fosters a community-driven approach, encouraging engagement through memberships, newsletters, and social media interactions. Whether you're looking for expert fitness guidance at FitnessByMichael.com, rejuvenating massage therapy at Michael4Massages.com, or natural aromatherapy products through NaturesNookShop.com, Barefut, naturescure, and NaturalNook.link, there's something for everyone. Enhance your mindset and learn about your astrological sign with AffirmationHaven.com, sharpen your learning skills at QuizWizMaster.com, and explore curated wellness resources at ThriveWell.in and Wellness411Warehouse.com. Stay inspired through Michael’s thought-provoking blogs, Miles Voice and MilesVoice.blogspot.com, where insights on life, health, and personal development come to life. Each site is powered by AI. They are designed for meaningful impact. Every site offers unique subscription-based services and e-commerce opportunities. These are tailored to elevate your lifestyle.
I am developing a project to help with Universal life occurrences like college, buying a house or retirement. My project focuses on assisting with major life events. Examples include pursuing higher education, purchasing a home, or planning for retirement. Universal Life Fund
ThriveWell.in: Your Ultimate Health, Fitness & Wellness Hub (coming soon but still can visit while it’s under construction)
At ThriveWell.io, we believe that true wellness starts with a mindset and extends into every part of your life. From science-backed fitness strategies to stress-relief techniques and nutrition insights, we provide the tools, tips, and motivation. These help you optimize your body. They also help sharpen your mind and live your best life—on any budget.
πͺ Break Barriers: No matter where you are in your journey, we help you unlock your full potential.
π₯ Smart Nutrition: Discover ways to eat clean and fuel your body—without breaking the bank.
π Master Stress: Proven techniques to boost mental wellness and reclaim your energy.
π₯ Move Better, Live Stronger: Fitness hacks that fit your lifestyle & goals.
ThriveWell.in isn’t just a website—it’s a movement toward better living, designed for real people with real goals. Let’s thrive together!
QuizWizMaster.com The ultimate AI-powered study companion, helping students master subjects through engaging quizzes, personalized learning tools, and insightful analytics. Take learning to the next level with monthly and yearly subscriptions that make education fun and effective. QuizWizMaster.com
AffirmationHaven.com – Your daily dose of positivity and growth, powered by AI-driven affirmations that uplift and inspire. Build confidence, cultivate self-love, and embrace personal development with curated content and subscription-based resources tailored to your journey.
http://AffirmationHaven.com
NaturesNookShop.com – Your sanctuary for naturally made candles and aromatherapy products designed to promote relaxation and mindfulness. Powered by AI insights, explore products crafted to enhance your well-being through soothing scents and sustainable ingredients.
Wellness Warehouse is dedicated to promoting health and wellness through a wide range of natural and organic products. From supplements and superfoods to eco-friendly home goods, they offer everything you need to support your well-being journey. Their mission is to provide pure, natural goodness while honoring both people and the planet. Whether you're looking to boost your immunity, manage stress, or enhance your fitness routine, Wellness Warehouse has you covered.
The Wellness411 YouTube channel focuses on promoting health, wellness, and overall well-being. They offer a variety of content. This includes tutorials on healthy habits, fitness routines, and tips for improving mental and physical health. The channel aims to support viewers on their journey to a healthier lifestyle through informative and engaging videos.
"PixelMyth Creations" is a magical YouTube destination for kids, where imagination comes to life! Dive into enchanting stories, fun animations, and creative adventures that spark curiosity and inspire young minds. Perfect for kids who love exploring colorful worlds and discovering new wonders!
NaturalNook.link is a platform dedicated to promoting natural and organic products. Their mission is to help people discover the benefits of a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. They do this by offering a wide range of high-quality, organic products. These products are free from harmful chemicals and synthetic ingredients. NaturalNook offers nourishing skincare. It also provides wholesome foods and eco-friendly household items. NaturalNook aims to support a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life.
FitnessbyMichael.com offers personalized fitness plans and support to help you achieve your health and wellness goals. Whether you prefer gym workouts or home exercises, they offer monthly workout plans. They provide nutritional guidance and access to a private members area with educational materials. Their approach is community-focused, ensuring you have the tools and support needed for a successful fitness journey.
Michael4Massages.com offers a variety of massage services aimed at reducing stress, easing pain, and improving overall well-being. Specializing in deep relaxation techniques, they provide treatments such as Swedish massage, oncology massage, lymphatic drainage, and CBD massage. Their goal is to help clients achieve deep relaxation and recovery, whether in their studio or at the client's location.
Joining Skool is a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their learning experience. Skool combines the best of social networking with structured learning. It offers a vibrant community of like-minded individuals. These individuals are eager to share knowledge, support each other, and grow together. Whether you're a student, a professional, or a lifelong learner, Skool provides essential resources and connections. These help you stay motivated. They ensure you stay informed. They support you in achieving your goals. It's a dynamic, interactive, and engaging platform where learning truly comes to life. Why settle for ordinary when you can join an extraordinary community?π✨
Grab $100 Coupon Bundle now by clicking Temu! Directly get $100 in Temu app here: Temu app Another surprise for you! Click Temu to earn with me together!
Joining Blogify is your key to unlocking a world of creative expression and professional growth. Whether you're an aspiring writer, seasoned blogger, or content marketer, Blogify provides you with the tools to elevate your writing. The platform helps you share your stories. It also helps you connect with readers worldwide. With intuitive features, insightful analytics, and a supportive network of fellow bloggers, Blogify makes it easy to craft compelling content. You can build your audience. You can achieve your blogging goals. Don't just write—thrive with Blogify! ✍️✨
Loveable.dev is an AI-powered platform that helps users build software applications quickly and efficiently. It acts as a superhuman full-stack engineer. This allows users to describe their ideas in natural language. They can instantly generate functional applications with beautiful designs. Loveable.dev supports frontend and backend development, integrates with GitHub, and enables users to make edits through simple text prompts. It’s designed for founders, product teams, designers, and developers who want to create and iterate on software without extensive coding.
Hostinger is a web hosting service provider known for its affordable and reliable hosting solutions. They offer a range of services, including shared hosting, cloud hosting, VPS hosting, and dedicated hosting. Hostinger provides features such as free domain registration, website migration, SSL certificates, and 24/7 customer support. Their platform is optimized for speed. The robust security features make it a popular choice for individuals. It is also favored by businesses looking to create and manage websites.
If you have any other questions or need further details, feel free to ask!
Hey! Use my fatty15 referral link to save on their products: Fatty15
Fatty 15 is a dietary supplement that delivers C15:0, also known as pentadecanoic acid, a newly discovered essential fatty acid. This supplement is designed to enhance cellular health, boost metabolism, and promote longevity. Unlike traditional omega-3 supplements, Fatty 15 offers a vegan, eco-friendly alternative. It supports overall health. This includes improved liver function, cardiovascular health, and mood.
Would you like to explore its benefits further?
https://youtu.be/XqLXiyqBd58?si=sLXRTDdk4bSOVwzx
Java Burn is a natural weight loss supplement designed to be mixed with your daily coffee. It contains ingredients like green tea extract, chromium, and L-theanine, which help boost metabolism, reduce appetite, and increase energy levels. Java Burn is tasteless and dissolves easily in coffee, making it a convenient addition to your morning routine. The supplement is made from high-quality, all-natural ingredients and is manufactured in an FDA-approved facility.
If you have any other questions or need further details, feel free to ask!
Hello Skip is a platform that helps entrepreneurs and small business owners. It assists them in finding and applying for grants, financing, and other funding opportunities. They offer a comprehensive marketplace for funding, including instant grants, small business relief funds, and creative residencies. The Skip app provides tools to discover new funding opportunities, track applications, and receive reminders and updates. Their mission is to make grants and funding accessible to every U.S. entrepreneur, helping businesses grow and succeed.
If you have any other questions or need further details, feel free to ask!
Crypto investing is an exciting venture into the future of finance. It offers the potential for high returns through diverse investment options such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital currencies. Beyond the financial aspects, it's about participating in a revolutionary technology that is reshaping industries, from finance to supply chain. However, it's crucial to approach crypto investing with caution due to its volatility and risks. Proper research, understanding of market dynamics, and a well-thought-out investment strategy are key. Embrace the innovation, but invest wisely! ππ
"Thank you for visiting my site and taking the time to read and share my content. Your support means a lot and helps me continue to provide valuable information."
If you need any
No comments:
Post a Comment