On Wednesday, Fox News host Emily Compagno brought a unique perspective to the discussion on Thanksgiving affordability during a segment on Fox & Friends. She expressed a “high sense of optimism” about the state of American affordability, attributing her optimism to a conversation with Santa Claus during a recent Christmas tree lighting event.
The segment followed findings from a Wells Fargo report indicating that the cost of a Thanksgiving meal for ten people has dropped to $80, marking a welcomed relief for many families amidst ongoing economic concerns. Co-hosts Brian Kilmeade and Griff Jenkins highlighted that although consumer confidence is currently at a near 40-year low, the decreasing prices for Thanksgiving staples offer a glimmer of hope.
Kilmeade pointed out the importance of how affordability is perceived by consumers. “No amount of statistics that are told to you matter unless you actually feel it at the table and you have your optimism,” he noted. The hosts also discussed significant reductions in prices for traditional Thanksgiving items, including turkey prices down 33% compared to past highs, and a 25% reduction in Walmart’s Thanksgiving meal offerings over the last year. Compagno reinforced the importance of optimism and personal sentiment when it comes to financial matters, emphasizing that statistics alone don’t capture the reality of consumer experiences.
In a moment that caught viewers off guard, Compagno referenced her chat with Santa, claiming he shared a sentiment of optimism not seen in a long time. This whimsical twist appears to offer a light-hearted angle on an otherwise serious topic, suggesting that the holiday spirit may bring a renewed sense of hope to families this Thanksgiving.
Despite the prevailing economic challenges, including low consumer confidence dating back to 1987 when the market collapsed, the conversation hinted at a more positive outlook for the upcoming holiday season. The hosts concluded that individuals may begin to feel more confident about their financial situations as they prepare for Thanksgiving, showcasing a potential shift towards optimism in the midst of economic uncertainty.