Student Spectrums

Fatima Ahmad is a sophomore in high school. She is passionate about writing to express her views on world events and political affairs of utmost relevance. Additionally, her words reflect her passion for meaningful change. 

Millions of Americans demand strong action to prevent this country from sinking into another nightmare of inflation. The Silicon Valley, a hub of innovation, and a region that feels the sting of inflation a lot more than other regions in the country, I am concerned as this is a problem that must be fixed. What keeps all citizens on their toes is the uncertainty around how President-elect Donald Trump will confront the current economic crisis, and what action will be taken to tackle the out-of-place economy, at a time where inflation remains one of the most pressing economic issues facing individuals. While the 2017 Administration advertised its ability to yank the economy and therefore inflation back on its tracks, its policies which were heavily promoted on the campaign trail, are going to do no good and send inflation soaring once more if enacted. 

According to Antonia Gentile, an econ professor, “many of Trump’s proposed policies may inadvertently fuel another inflation nightmare.” More recently, according to CNN, “President-elect Donald Trump’s promise to impose stiff tariffs against America’s three biggest trading partners,” is widely expected to push prices higher. In fact, according to The Washington Post, “Donald Trump’s threat to hit Mexico with tariffs could raise prices on a surprising number of foods and drinks,” which is no surprise. Not only food, but cars and quite literally, the prices of everything will spike up. Extra charges on high demand goods will  pull even more money from buyers’ pockets, driving inflation even higher.

Since the pandemic,  “According to data from the California Legislative Analyst’s Office, prices in California, including Silicon Valley, have risen roughly 20% overall since 2020.” From skyrocketing grocery bills to housing costs pushing families out of cities, everyday people are struggling to make ends meet. I have witnessed prices, even in grocery stores doubling over these few years, in my community. Most importantly, this leads to a higher cost of living in an area that is already known for sparking rent and housing prices.

Despite living in the Bay Area, I have seen far too many streets and areas, including the one next to my school, taken over by those who can’t afford housing. As more people end up helpless on the street, crime like break-ins and thefts can increase, even in safe and high-end neighborhoods, which can hurt property values, changing the quality of life for everyone living there. Imagine walking outside a few years from now, only to realize that the extra money you spent on security isn’t enough to protect you and the once safe and secure streets which have now become the hub of violence.

Although  inflation can’t be tackled in a mere four years, it can be reduced to a certain extent. We need qualified individuals appointed to key positions who are experts in economics, and ones who can develop and also execute sustainable solutions to combat the rise of inflation, not underqualified felons. Supply chains need to be stabilized, government spending needs to be put under control, and affordable housing needs to be expanded. Inflation is not an isolated problem. Instead, it impacts every American despite social status.

As an individual living in the Bay area, already one of the most expensive areas in this country, I believe that it is a crisis that demands not only immediate attention, but also comprehensive action to prevent another inflation nightmare.