You’ve undoubtedly heard stories about judges who don’t prosecute felons, giving the impression that anything and everything goes these days.  There are instances of this happening, but for the most part that’s not the case, and here’s the proof: At the end of 2023 the U.S. had the highest number of prisoners in the world, and that number has increased since then.  There are more than 1.8 million Americans behind bars now – approximately 100,000 more than there are in China, whose population is three times ours. 

Many business reports say that the economy is improving, that inflation is being brought under control, and that the federal deficit will be slashed.  These are very reassuring, but they also raise important questions.  For one, if the economy really is getting better, why are so many middle-class people trapped in a web of financial pressure?  And, as important, why can’t middle class people save money?  

On Nov. 13, outgoing Pres. Joe Biden and incoming Pres. Donald Trump met in the While House for two hours.  Afterwards, both said they would cooperate to make the transition as smooth and easy as possible.  Lots of people were relieved when they heard that - but there was one problem.  Despite those assurances, the two teams were not cooperating.  In fact, some political observers said the Biden Administration was trying to sabotage Trump’s plans even before he was sworn into office.