Commentary

I know, lately I have been letting my age creep into my commentaries with references to people no longer in the news.  A few days ago, foreseeing an economic boom in 2026, I wrote of Al Jolson, known for his line, “you ain’t heard nothin’ yet.”

When I saw the headline, “CNN shares breaking news alert and it’s good news for Trump,” my memory went back to Gabriel Heater, the Mutual News broadcaster in the1940s who opened his newscasts with the phrase “there’s good news tonight,” often prefaced with a warm “ahhhh.” My Dad admired him.

Heater was known for seeking out uplifting true stories to use in his commentaries.  CNN, however, is known for taking viewpoints contrary to those of President Trump and his policies.

While some in the media saw the Trump economy flailing and reported misery for Republicans in the midterms, CNN surprisingly took a different approach, reporting that third quarter gross domestic product showed the economy expanded at a rate of 4.3 percent, which was faster than the 3.8 percent recorded in the second quarter, the fastest growth in two years.

Appearing on CNBC, White House economic advisor Kevin Hassett, pointing to the stronger-than-expected growth, said, “It’s really a fantastic number and it’s a great Christmas present for the American people.”

Speaking of Christmas presents, your continued readership in 2026 will be a satisfying Christmas gift to me.

May you have a Merry Christmas, and may God continue to bless the United States of America.