Via the NYT: Family Affair: Commerce Secretary’s Sons Cash In on A.I. Frenzy. “[N]ever in modern U.S. history has the office intersected so broadly and deeply with the financial interests of the commerce secretary’s own family, according to interviews with ethics lawyers and historians.”
Fox guest on how to save money during the holidays:
"Remember, adults don't need gifts. Focus on the people in your life who are aged 3 to 18. Grandma doesn't need slippers. If they don't live by you, don't get them a gift." pic.twitter.com/nO0d6KLh2C
Steven L. Taylor is a Professor Emeritus of Political Science and former College of Arts and Sciences Dean. His main areas of expertise include parties, elections, and the institutional design of democracies. His most recent book is the co-authored A Different Democracy: American Government in a 31-Country Perspective. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Texas and his BA from the University of California, Irvine. He has been blogging since 2003 (originally at the now defunct Poliblog).
Follow Steven on Twitter and/or BlueSky.
I would actually be happy to not receive gifts. I’m in good financial shape and have everything I want. Another sweater is likely to stay in the dresser till December 26, 2026 and then go into the Salvation Army bag. My wife and I spend every December 26 getting rid of stuff. I like giving gifts, and we try to find unique things for people. Consider the recipient’s situation. There are Grandmas that need slippers, and there are some who don’t. Make the present mean something more than a pro forma response to an obligation foisted by merchants.
I would actually be happy to not receive gifts. I’m in good financial shape and have everything I want. Another sweater is likely to stay in the dresser till December 26, 2026 and then go into the Salvation Army bag. My wife and I spend every December 26 getting rid of stuff. I like giving gifts, and we try to find unique things for people. Consider the recipient’s situation. There are Grandmas that need slippers, and there are some who don’t. Make the present mean something more than a pro forma response to an obligation foisted by merchants.
There’s a special visa for people who are victims of crimes. Probably would not apply, alas.
Is the system crashed better than “my dog ate the hard rive”?
Steve
Is it OK to give grandma some groceries? Or a pound of ground beef?
@Ken_L: Only if she lives nearby and you’ll have to see her suffer.