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White House prepares for sharp rise in poverty rate on September 11, 2023 at 11:00 pm Business News | The Hill
The White House is preparing for a sharp rise in the U.S. poverty rate following the end of pandemic-era child tax credit (CTC) expansion.
President Biden and Democrats fought unsuccessfully last year to extend an expanded version of the CTC that started during the depths of the pandemic and temporarily lifted millions of children out of poverty.
The Census Bureau is set to release Tuesday its annual report on poverty, income, and health insurance. The new poverty data will be a hit for Biden, whose reelection campaign could hinge on how Americans feel about the economy.
The Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) said in a blog post Friday that it expects a “sharp rise” in the Supplemental Poverty Measure, which measures income and benefits plus government programs such as tax refunds and food stamps.
To “understand why this is likely to happen in 2022, it is crucial to remember what happened in 2021,” the CEA argued.
A Democratic-controlled Congress passed the beefed-up CTC in 2021, boosting the credit eligible parents could receive to $3,000 per child over the age of 6 and $3,600 per child under the age of 6.
The enhanced CTC alone lifted almost 3 million children out of poverty in 2021 and cut the child poverty rate by more than 40 percent in 2021, the CEA wrote.
The expansion expired in December 2021, and Democrats have not been able to strike a deal with Republicans to bring it back since.
Sen. Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), who has championed expanding the program, said that the census data will show that Congress should have not allowed the expanded credit to expire.
“When we expanded the Child Tax Credit, we demonstrated that we don’t have to accept one of the highest childhood poverty rates in the industrialized world as a permanent feature of our democracy. Tomorrow’s data will show we never should have let it expire, and I’m committed to doing everything I can to restore it,” he told The Hill in a statement.
The CEA argued Friday that the increase in poverty is likely to persist absent congressional action to restore the enhanced child tax credit.
Zach Moller, director of the economic program at the center-left think tank Third Way, said Democrats will uphold this report as a good reason to continue the child tax credit expansion because it’s proof that government intervention is necessary.
“The government can absolutely fight childhood poverty, it just costs money to do it,” he said. “Those policies that the Biden administration and the Congress were able to implement in the American Rescue Plan act were temporary, so the improvement in child poverty is temporary.”
Cutting child poverty for the long term has been a goal for Biden since he took office.
The expanded CTC was a centerpiece of Biden’s American Rescue Plan, the 2021 economic relief bill passed after Democrats took control of the White House and Congress.
Biden and fellow Democrats are eager to tout the benefits of the president’s economic plan, dubbed “Bidenomics,” with the 2024 election roughly a year away.
Republicans have blamed Biden for the surge in inflation that began shortly after he took office, though price growth sped up across the world in the wake of the pandemic.
Biden, meanwhile, has recently stepped up attacks on former President Trump about the economy while hoping to highlight the rapid recovery and the historically strong job market of his own presidency.
Biden and Democratic lawmakers have also touted trillions of dollars allocated for improving infrastructure, bringing down drug prices, expanding manufacturing and cracking down on tax evasion by the wealthy and corporations.
But messaging about the economy hasn’t been easy for the Biden administration; Bidenomics is a major talking point for the administration on the campaign trail but has yet to really take off with Americans.
A recent RealClearPolitics polling average shows just 38 percent of those surveyed approve of Biden’s handling of the economy, compared with 58.4 percent who disapprove.
Biden has been hit with dismal polling numbers overall lately. A CNN poll released last week found that 46 percent of registered voters said any Republican presidential nominee would be better than Biden in next year’s election and found his overall approval rating at a 39 percent.
Moller argued that Biden’s focus on creating jobs, especially for low-income Americans, could bring him closer to his goal of cutting child poverty because of provisions in his top legislative achievements — the Inflation Reduction Act, the infrastructure bill, and the CHIPs and Science Act.
“All that manufacturing is going to be incredibly helpful for folks with out there that don’t have a college degree. And so that is another way of trying to tackle childhood poverty, by making sure that parents have a good-paying job,” Moller said.
In its blog post, the CEA noted that the Congressional Budget Office projected in 2021 that it would take until the end of 2025 for the jobless rate to fall under 4 percent. The unemployment rate was 3.8 percent as of August, not far from its 3.5 percent rate before the pandemic.
Inflation is steadily improving, a success that the president touts often. But the CEA expects Tuesday’s census data to show inflation-adjusted income falling in 2022.
The agency blamed “elevated pandemic inflation” and “factors such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine and avian bird flu” for the 2022 data, and the Biden administration will likely argue that the data is in the rear-view because of the improvements in inflation in 2023.
Business, Administration The White House is preparing for a sharp rise in the U.S. poverty rate following the end of pandemic-era child tax credit (CTC) expansion. President Biden and Democrats fought unsuccessfully last year to extend an expanded version of the CTC that started during the depths of the pandemic and temporarily lifted millions of children out…
Based on the election results, Donald Trump has indeed won the 2024 U.S. presidential election, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris. Here’s an analysis of the key statistics and implications:
Electoral College Victory
Donald Trump has secured the presidency by winning crucial battleground states and flipping some key states that were previously held by Democrats. The final Electoral College tally is still being determined, but Trump has surpassed the 270 electoral votes needed to win.
Battleground State Performance
Trump’s victory was largely secured by winning several critical swing states:
- Wisconsin: Trump’s win here was pivotal in securing his path to victory.
- Pennsylvania: This state flipped back to Republican control.
- Georgia: Another key state that Trump managed to win back.
- Michigan: Trump successfully flipped this traditionally Democratic stronghold.
Popular Vote and Voter Priorities
While the final popular vote tally is still being calculated, exit polls provide insight into voter priorities:
- Economy and democracy were top concerns for voters.
- Abortion and immigration also played significant roles in voter decision-making.
Congressional Control
The election results extend beyond the presidency:
- Republicans are set to take back the Senate majority, securing at least 51 seats.
- Control of the House of Representatives remains undetermined.
Media Implications
The outcome of this election could be seen as a challenge to mainstream media narratives for several reasons:
- Polling Discrepancies: Many pre-election polls suggested a tight race or even a slight Harris advantage in key states. Trump’s victory, particularly in battleground states, may indicate that polls underestimated his support.
- Narrative Shifts: Throughout the campaign, much of the mainstream media focused on Trump’s legal challenges and controversies. His victory suggests that these issues may not have resonated with voters as much as economic and policy concerns.
- Voter Priorities: The emphasis on issues like the economy and immigration in voter decision-making may indicate a disconnect between media focus and voter concerns.
- Electoral Predictions: Many mainstream outlets were cautious about predicting a Trump victory, even as results began to favor him. This hesitancy could be seen as a reflection of broader media skepticism about Trump’s chances.
- Underestimation of Trump’s Base: The results suggest that Trump’s core support remained strong and potentially grew, despite negative coverage in much of the mainstream media.
It’s important to note that while the election outcome may challenge some media narratives, it doesn’t necessarily invalidate all mainstream reporting. The complex factors influencing voter behavior and the challenges of accurate political forecasting remain subjects of ongoing analysis and debate.
As the dust settles on this historic election, both the media and political analysts will likely engage in extensive reflection on the factors that led to Trump’s victory and the implications for future political coverage and analysis.
Bolanle Media is excited to announce our partnership with The Newbie Film Academy to offer comprehensive courses designed specifically for aspiring screenwriters. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, our resources will provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive world of screenwriting. Join us today to unlock your creative potential and take your first steps toward crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences. Let’s turn your ideas into impactful scripts together!
In the glitzy world of cinema, film festivals are more than just red carpets and champagne flutes. They’re the secret sauce in the recipe for discovering the next Spielberg, Scorsese, or Zhao. Let’s roll out the metaphorical red carpet and dive into the data-driven wonderland of how these cinematic soirées turn unknown filmmakers into tomorrow’s Hollywood hotshots:
1. The Exposure Express: Where Hidden Gems Sparkle
Film festivals are like show-and-tell on steroids for filmmakers. A whopping 71% of emerging directors cite festival screenings as crucial for gaining industry exposure. It’s where hidden gems get their chance to sparkle brighter than a vampire in sunlight.
- On average, each major festival screens 200+ films, giving newbies a fighting chance against established names.
- 1 in 5 films find distribution deals at festivals, turning indie dreams into mainstream realities.
- 85% of filmmakers report increased social media following post-festival, because nothing says “I’ve made it” like a surge in Instagram followers.
2. Networking Nirvana: Six Degrees of Separation? More Like Two!
These festivals are Hollywood’s version of speed dating, but instead of swiping right, you’re handing out business cards faster than a Vegas dealer. With an average of 2,500 industry professionals attending major festivals, it’s a schmooze-or-lose situation.
- 63% of filmmakers report making career-changing connections at festivals.
- The average attendee exchanges contact info with 15 new people per day. That’s more numbers than you got in high school!
- 40% of collaborative projects are born from festival meet-cutes. Who knew discussing obscure German expressionist films could lead to your next big break?
3. Feedback Frenzy: Where Egos are Bruised and Brilliance is Born
Q&A sessions are like a filmmaker’s baptism by fire. 82% of festival-goers attend these sessions, offering instant, unfiltered reactions that can make or break a filmmaker’s spirit (and possibly their next project).
- Filmmakers receive an average of 50 audience questions per screening. That’s 50 chances to either sound brilliant or wish for a trap door.
- 75% of directors make changes to their films based on festival feedback. It’s like a real-time focus group, but with more film jargon and fewer free snacks.
- The most common audience question? “What was your budget?” followed closely by “What did that ending mean?” Some things never change.
4. Award-Winning Boost: From Unknown to ‘Next Big Thing’
Getting your film into a prestigious festival is like winning the lottery, but instead of cash, you get instant street cred. Films with festival laurels are 35% more likely to secure distribution. Suddenly, you’re not just some kid with a camera; you’re an “award-winning filmmaker” faster than you can say “And the winner is…”
- The average major festival hands out 20+ awards. That’s a lot of opportunities to practice your surprised face.
- 60% of films winning top prizes at major festivals go on to wider theatrical release. Oscar, here we come!
- Festival award winners see an average 150% increase in industry meeting requests. Suddenly, everyone wants to do lunch.
5. Diversity’s Got Talent: A Global Stage for Unheard Voices
Festivals are championing voices from all corners, proving that great stories can come from anywhere, not just Hollywood backlots. In 2023, 45% of films at major festivals were from underrepresented groups.
- Festivals introduced audiences to films from 100+ countries last year. It’s like a cinematic United Nations, but with better catering.
- 30% of festival programmers actively seek out films from first-time directors. Fresh blood keeps the movie monster alive!
- Diversity initiatives have led to a 25% increase in submissions from underrepresented filmmakers over the past five years. The cinematic melting pot is bubbling over with flavor.
6. Film School 2.0: Learning Without the Loans
Forget stuffy classrooms. 78% of emerging filmmakers attend festival workshops, turning these events into film school on steroids. It’s where budding Tarantinos learn the tricks of the trade without the student debt.
- The average festival offers 30+ educational events. That’s more learning than most of us did in college, and with better networking opportunities.
- 90% of attendees report learning at least one new industry trend or technique. Who knew vertical video would become a thing?
- Workshops cover everything from “Guerrilla Filmmaking 101” to “How to Make Your Indie Film Look Like It Cost Millions (When It Cost Pennies).”
7. The Festival Effect: Where Careers Are Born
Film festivals aren’t just events; they’re career incubators. They’re where dreams are hatched, stars are born, and where you might just witness the birth of the next big thing in cinema.
- 1 in 3 breakout indie hits originated from festival circuits in the last decade. That’s a better success rate than most dating apps!
- Filmmakers who’ve been to festivals are 40% more likely to secure funding for their next project. Apparently, rubbing elbows with the elite is good for the wallet.
- 25% of major studio executives report scouting new talent primarily at film festivals. It’s like “America’s Got Talent,” but for movie nerds.
Conclusion: The Reel Deal
In the end, film festivals are more than just a place to watch movies and spot celebrities trying to blend in with oversized sunglasses. They’re the beating heart of the film industry, pumping fresh talent and ideas into the cinematic bloodstream.
So, the next time you’re at a film festival, remember: that person sitting next to you furiously taking notes might just be the next big name in Hollywood. And if they ask you what you thought of their film, be kind – your words might just shape the future of cinema. Or at least shape their next therapy session.
Grab your popcorn, silence your phones, and get ready for the show. In the world of film festivals, every screening is a potential discovery, every conversation a possible collaboration, and every award a career launcher. It’s where the magic of movies meets the hustle of Hollywood, and the result is pure cinematic alchemy.
Producing engaging YouTube videos doesn’t have to break the bank. With the right strategies and tools, you can create high-quality content that resonates with your audience without overspending.
Define Clear Objectives
Before you start filming, establish your goals. Are you aiming to increase brand awareness, drive traffic to your website, or boost video views? Your objectives will guide your content strategy and help you measure success.
Create Compelling Content
Invest time in developing high-quality video concepts. According to Analytics Partners, video content has twice the lasting impact of non-video content. Focus on creating content that resonates with your audience and aligns with your brand messaging.
Leverage Smartphone Technology
Modern smartphones offer excellent video quality. For example, the iPhone 12 Pro can shoot 4K video at 60 fps, rivaling many dedicated cameras. Pair your smartphone with a basic tripod and external microphone for professional-looking results.
Optimize Lighting
Good lighting is crucial for video quality. Natural light is free and effective. Position yourself near a window or invest in affordable lighting options like ring lights, which typically cost between $20-$100.
Post-Production and Optimization
Use Free Editing Software
Take advantage of free or low-cost editing tools. DaVinci Resolve, for instance, offers professional-grade editing capabilities at no cost for its basic version.
Optimize for SEO
YouTube’s algorithm considers factors like view count, engagement, watch time, and relevance when recommending videos[2]. Use keywords in your titles, descriptions, and tags to improve discoverability. For example, including relevant keywords in your title can increase views by up to 20%.
Engagement Strategies
Prioritize Community Engagement
Respond to comments and interact with your audience. YouTube puts recent comments front-and-center in your analytics dashboard, encouraging timely responses. This engagement can lead to higher watch times and subscriber growth.
Experiment with YouTube Shorts
YouTube Shorts are amassing tens of billions of views daily. Creating Shorts content can increase your channel’s visibility and engagement without requiring significant production resources.
Budget-Friendly Marketing Tactics
Leverage Remarketing
Implement remarketing campaigns to re-engage viewers who have already interacted with your content. This targeted approach can be more cost-effective than broad audience targeting.
A/B Testing
Experiment with different video formats, thumbnails, and titles. YouTube’s own data shows that 90% of top-performing videos have custom thumbnails. A/B testing can help you identify what resonates best with your audience without additional production costs.
Real-Life Example
Consider the case of Peter McKinnon, a photographer and filmmaker who started his YouTube channel in 2010. Using primarily his smartphone and basic editing software, he grew his channel to over 5 million subscribers. His success came from consistently delivering valuable content, engaging with his audience, and gradually improving his production quality as his channel grew.
By implementing these strategies, you can create engaging YouTube content that resonates with your audience without overspending. Remember, the key is to focus on delivering value and consistently improving based on audience feedback and performance metrics.
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