"The Daily Wrangle" with host Boyd Howdy offers a news wrap-up, analysis, and commentary on current events.
Howdy discusses various topics, including the impact of tariffs on the economy and specific companies like Ford, the political maneuvering around interest rates and inflation, and developments in the California gubernatorial race following Kamala Harris's decision not to run.
The episode also touches on a disturbing murder case in Arkansas and broader concerns about increasing violence and environmental issues, particularly water scarcity. Howdy often expresses his personal opinions on political figures and economic policies, emphasizing the importance of voting to address the challenges facing the country.
Excerpts from "TheDailyWrangle July 3125.mp3" podcast with Boyd Howdy.
I. Economic Instability and Tariffs: A "Chaos Machine"
The central theme revolves around the perceived instability and negative economic impact of the current administration's trade policies, particularly concerning tariffs.
- Uncertainty as an Economic Hurdle: Howdy repeatedly emphasizes that the "uncertainty that's hurting the economy" is a direct result of erratic policy decisions. He calls the situation a "chaos machine," highlighting the unpredictable nature of trade negotiations.
- Tariffs' Negative Impact on American Businesses: Despite the administration's claims, tariffs are presented as detrimental to American companies.
- Ford Motor Company Example: Ford is cited as a prime example, "underperforming" and taking a "beating" on its stock due to tariffs. They are "having to eat the costs rather than pass them on," fearing that passing on higher costs would "hurt their sales" and create "bad will with their customers." This is driven by the expectation that the administration "is going to change his mind in a week or two," making long-term strategic pricing difficult.
- Widespread Impact: This issue is "happening across many many companies products and services."
- Exploitation and Price Gouging: Some businesses are "boosting their prices because they see an opportunity to boost prices when they're maybe not even impacted by a tariff." This is likened to price gouging during natural disasters.
- Service Industry Concerns: Specific examples include repair services (e.g., air conditioner, garage door repair) where labor costs are being inflated under the guise of tariff impacts, even though "the labor shouldn't be" affected.
- Inflationary Pressures and Presidential Disconnect:Rising Prices: Howdy directly refutes the president's claim that "prices are down," asserting that "prices are up across the board." He challenges the president to "just go buy some food for a change and let us know if you think prices are up or down."
- Interest Rate Debate: The president's desire for 0% interest rates is criticized for its potential to drive up inflation. Howdy argues that while lower interest rates encourage borrowing and spending, they also lead to "prices go up," and the current economic environment "can't afford for prices to go higher from here." He advocates for slow, predictable economic management to avoid "huge spikes up or down" and allow for business and individual planning.
II. Political Landscape and Administration Criticism
The podcast heavily criticizes the current president and discusses the evolving political landscape, particularly in California.
- Presidential Criticism: Hubris and Distraction: The president is accused of "hubris" and making decisions based on "the minute and how he feels." His actions, like the extended deadline for Mexico while escalating tariffs with Canada, are seen as attempts to "distract from the Epstein issue." The desire to rename the Kennedy Center the "Trump Center" is given as an example of his perceived self-aggrandizement.
- Erratic Decision-Making: The administration is characterized by constant change, with "changes happening in this administration.
22 mins