Medicare Premium Increases and Taxpayer-Funded Subsidies

Concerns raised about future of Social Security and Medicare due to upcoming increases in Medicare premiums and taxpayer-funded subsidies to mask the hikes. Critics argue that the Inflation Reduction Act is not providing real relief and will lead to a significant impact on government spending and debt.

Chinese Government's Role in the Fentanyl Crisis

Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi discusses the Chinese government's role in the fentanyl crisis, highlighting how they subsidize exports of illicit fentanyl and how many exporting companies are controlled by the Chinese Communist Party.

China's Role in Illicit Fentanyl Trafficking

China is accused of continuing to subsidize the manufacturing and export of illicit fentanyl despite promises to crack down on the industry. This has led to devastating overdose deaths in the U.S.

Decline in Sales of Volkswagen Electric Cars in Europe

Sales of Volkswagen electric cars in Europe have dropped by almost a quarter due to stalled demand for battery-powered vehicles as buyers return to petrol. This decline is attributed to factors such as high inflation, rising energy prices, rollback of subsidies, and reconsideration of ambitious targets to phase out petrol and diesel cars by politicians in the region.

Federal Tax on Rum Supporting Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands

The federal tax on rum in the U.S. generates over $700 million a year, with most of the money going to support Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. However, a controversial deal in 2008 led to a race to the bottom between the two islands, resulting in budget crises and increased subsidies for rum companies.

China-made Electric Vehicles in Europe

China-made electric vehicles are gaining popularity in Europe, with a projected market share of over 25% by 2024. Chinese brands like BYD are expanding globally, challenging Western brands like Tesla in the EV market. The European Commission is investigating subsidies given to Chinese EV makers, while T&E suggests raising tariffs to promote self-sufficiency in the EU's EV industry.