GDP Slows To 1.4% As Trump Blames Democrats

Commerce Department reported 1.4% annual growth in Q4 2025; Trump posted a typo-filled Truth Social message before the release.

Overview

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1.

The Commerce Department reported U.S. economic growth slowed to an annual rate of 1.4% in the fourth quarter of 2025.

2.

The Commerce Department said the slower fourth-quarter pace reflected downturns in government spending and exports and a deceleration in consumer spending.

3.

President Donald Trump posted a typo-filled Truth Social message about the economy roughly 40 to 60 minutes before the Commerce Department release, blaming Democrats and urging lower interest rates.

4.

Unemployment was 4.3%, the economy added a net 359,000 jobs in 2025 per the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, and the Fed left rates at 3.5%–3.75% in its January 2026 meeting.

5.

White House aides held a strategy meeting hosted by Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, warning officials the economy would be a top-tier voter issue ahead of this year's midterm elections.

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Real GDP increased at an annual rate of 1.4% in Q4 2025, down from 4.4% in Q3 2025 and below expectations of around 3%.

The deceleration was due to downturns in government spending (federal spending fell 16.6%), exports, and slower consumer spending (2.4% vs 3.5% prior), partly offset by investment growth.

Real GDP increased 2.2% for the full year 2025, compared to 2.8% in 2024.

Trump posted a typo-filled Truth Social message 40-60 minutes before the release, blaming Democrats for the slowdown and urging lower interest rates.