Affordability Isn’t a Hoax. It’s Not a Crisis for Most, Either

When someone tells you that they are struggling, it is generally a good rule of thumb to take them seriously. So it was not the best political move for President Donald Trump to call the affordability issue a “hoax.” Too many Americans are trying to cope with rising food prices and high costs for housing, health care and child care.

At the same time, it is important to note that there is not a widespread “affordability crisis” in the US. Some people are truly unable to keep up with basic necessities. Some have high expectations that their incomes can’t meet. And some are doing fine.