Trump's 25% Thanksgiving Savings Claim: A Closer Look at the Shrinking Menu

President Donald Trump has claimed that the cost of Thanksgiving dinner has decreased by 25% this year, citing a prepackaged meal basket from Walmart as evidence. However, an examination of the facts reveals that while the cost of the meal basket is indeed lower, it contains half as many items as last year's basket. According to Walmart, the 2025 meal basket costs about 25% less than the one from 2024, but it includes fewer items. The 2024 basket contained 12 items, including a turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and other traditional Thanksgiving sides. In contrast, the 2025 basket contains six items, with some of the missing items being replaced by generic or store-brand alternatives. Trump made the claim during a news conference on Friday with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, saying, "I just saw that Walmart came out with a statement last night, they've done it for many years, that Thanksgiving this year will cost 25 less than Thanksgiving last year." However, Trump's numbers are off, and Walmart's statement does not support his claim. The cost of groceries has increased by 2.7% this year, making it more challenging for families to afford a traditional Thanksgiving meal. The prepackaged meal basket from Walmart is designed to make it easier for consumers to plan and budget for the holiday, but the reduction in items may not be enough to offset the higher cost of groceries. Walmart spokesperson, a representative, stated, "We're proud to offer a convenient and affordable option for customers to enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal. While the cost of the meal basket has decreased, we understand that the value of the basket may be impacted by the reduction in items." The decrease in the number of items in the meal basket has raised concerns among some consumers who rely on the prepackaged option to plan their holiday meals. "I'm disappointed that the meal basket has fewer items this year," said Sarah Johnson, a Walmart customer. "I've been buying this basket for years, and I like the convenience of having everything I need in one package." The cost of groceries is expected to continue to rise in the coming months, making it essential for consumers to plan and budget carefully for the holiday season. As for Trump's claim, it remains unclear whether he will continue to tout the prepackaged meal basket as evidence of a decrease in the cost of Thanksgiving dinner. In related news, the National Grocers Association has announced plans to release a report on the cost of groceries in the coming weeks, which may provide further insight into the impact of rising grocery prices on consumers.