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Press Secretary's Claims Spark Orwellian Backlash Amid Economic Reality

12/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Karoline Leavitt (White House press secretary) stated at a December 11, 2025 press conference that the economy was improving, citing a 2.5% inflation rate and a $1,200 increase in real wages.
Actual inflation is 3%.
Wage growth is at its lowest since May 2021.
Critics compare her remarks to George Orwell's 1984 and say she misrepresented tax policies and historical phrases to support U.S. President Donald Trump and undermine opponents.

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Story summary

Karoline Leavitt (White House press secretary) stated at a December 11, 2025 press conference that the economy was improving, citing a 2.5% inflation rate and a $1,200 increase in real wages.
Actual inflation is 3%.
Wage growth is at its lowest since May 2021.
Critics compare her remarks to George Orwell's 1984 and say she misrepresented tax policies and historical phrases to support U.S. President Donald Trump and undermine opponents.