Meet the Press NOW — Dec. 9

Economy & Affordability - The report highlights conflicting views on the US economy, with President Trump giving himself an "A++" grade while data indicates energy prices have risen and overall inflation is up 3% year-over-year [2][4] - A recent NBC News poll shows 66% of Americans believe the Trump administration has underperformed on inflation and cost of living, while Gallup and Fox News polls indicate low approval and negative impact from the administration's economic policies [6] - Voters in Pennsylvania express frustration with rising prices and pessimism about politicians' ability to address them [12][13][14] - Gas prices are down from last year, but utility prices, rent, and car insurance are up, with overall inflation 3% higher than a year ago [17][18][19] - The White House blames Democrats for affordability issues, while Democrats accuse the Trump administration of lacking credibility on the economy [25][26][27][28][29][30] Healthcare - Senate Republicans are proposing to redirect Affordable Care Act (ACA) funding to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), offering $1,000 per year for adults under 50 and $1,500 per year for adults over 50 not on Medicare [72][73] - Senate Democrats are pushing for a three-year extension of ACA subsidies, benefiting approximately 22 million Americans, but this is expected to fail [70][77] - Healthcare premiums are set to potentially double for over 20 million Americans next year [79] Foreign Policy & National Security - President Trump is critical of Europe, stating that "most European nations, they're they're decaying" [46] - The administration faces questions about the legality of US strikes against alleged drug cartel members in the Caribbean Sea [57][58] - A provision in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) would reduce the Secretary of Defense's budget unless the full unedited video of military strikes on boats in the Caribbean is released [60] - The president is hinting at potential land strikes in Venezuela and other countries deemed to be bringing drugs into the United States [62][63][64] Political Strategy & Midterms - The Trump administration plans to campaign heavily in the lead-up to the midterms, focusing on mobilizing Trump voters [92] - Republican strategists express concern about turning out the base with Trump not on the ballot [90] - A Democratic candidate for Senate in South Carolina, Dr Annie Andrews, highlights Senator Lindsey Graham's low approval rating of 34% [119]