Top Trump Adviser Ridiculed for Bragging About Saving Americans... 19 Cents

Kevin Hassett, President Donald Trumps chief economic adviser, faced online ridicule over the weekend after highlighting a minimal drop in turkey prices this Thanksgiving as evidence of Trumps economic performance. Hassett, who leads the White House National Economic Council, claimed his family enjoyed a more abundant Thanksgiving meal thanks to a savings of just 19 cents.

During an appearance on Fox & Friends Weekend on Sunday, Hassett said, Turkey prices were down 19 cents. I bought two different ones because some other show criticized me for saying generic turkeys are pretty good. I didnt really notice the difference, so buy the cheaper turkey next year, or the fancier one if you want.

His comments sparked widespread mockery and debate on social media. One user commented, One persons grocery receipt isnt economic data. National food inflation requires broader metrics than a sample size of two turkeys. Another added, I bought two turkeys!! is not a convincing answer to Americans cant afford to eat.

It remains unclear whether Hassetts 19-cent figure referred to the total cost or price per pound of turkey. The Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index, however, shows that food-at-home prices rose 2.7% between September 2024 and September 2025.

Hassetts remarks follow a contentious interview with ABCs Jonathan Karl last month, where he defended Trumps disputed claim that the overall cost of Thanksgiving dinner was lower this year than under former President Joe Biden. He stated, You want us to fix the hole that Joe Biden caused right away. Prices went up so much under Biden, and inflation is way down.

With assets reportedly worth at least $7.6 million in 2024 according to Bloomberg, Hassett is said to be Trumps leading candidate for the next Federal Reserve chair. Trump recently criticized current Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell as a numbskull for not cutting interest rates quickly, while Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent suggested there is a strong possibility a new Fed appointment could be announced before Christmas.

Author: Sophia Brooks