Some clarity regarding life under Biden

In response to Patricia Bertrand’s Dec. 9 letter “Life was better under the previous president,” I did my research as suggested and would like to provide clarity to her supposition.

Under President Biden, unemployment is at 3.7% according to the Labor Department. Furthermore, the jobless rate has remained below 4% for the past two years. Not since the 1960s has America witnessed such an historic period of unfettered job growth.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and J.P. Morgan Wealth Management, inflation has decreased from 3.7% to 3.2%. In addition, shelter prices (a large component of core inflation) have gradually declined and are expected to continue doing so. Furthermore, according to a survey of economists by FactSet, annual price increases slowed to 3.1%, down from 9.1% in June 2022.

Gas prices dropped to $3.19/gallon in 2023, down 14 cents compared to 2022. Furthermore, oil futures dropped seven straight weeks. This is the longest stretch in five years.

Through deft negotiating, President Biden rallied NATO in supporting Ukraine to fend off Russia’s unprovoked attack. Russian President (Dictator) Vladimir Putin anticipated a quick victory in his quest to resurrect the former Soviet Union. Instead, the potential for World War III emanating in Europe has been significantly diminished.

In addition, the current POTUS has prevented the war between Israel and Hamas from escalating throughout the Middle East while promulgating humanitarian aid for civilians impacted by the war.

A vibrant democracy can be recognized for promoting differing opinions in a respectful, civil manner. However, making blanket statements or baseless allegations without supporting facts and evidence (“Our children are being indoctrinated to hate our country”) is a major cause of our country’s divisiveness and undercurrent of mistrust. Every American can and should have ardent, passionate views. However, please be prepared to validate your perspectives.

Lawrence E. Bonk

Roselle