Trump's Thanksgiving Claim: 25% Cheaper, but Half the Feast

President Donald Trump has claimed that the cost of Thanksgiving dinner has decreased by 25% this year, citing a prepackaged meal basket from Walmart. However, an examination of the facts reveals that while the 2025 meal basket does cost about 25% less than the one from 2024, it contains half as many items as the previous year's basket. According to a statement released by Walmart, the company has been offering prepackaged Thanksgiving meal baskets for several years, and the 2025 basket includes fewer items than its predecessor. "We've done it for many years," a Walmart spokesperson said. "Our Thanksgiving meal basket is designed to provide customers with a convenient and affordable way to enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal at home." The spokesperson noted that the 2025 basket includes fewer items, but at a lower overall cost. The discrepancy between Trump's claim and the actual facts has raised questions about the accuracy of the president's statements. "It's misleading to say that the cost of Thanksgiving dinner is down 25% when the basket contains fewer items," said a spokesperson for the National Grocers Association. "While the cost may be lower, the value to the consumer is actually reduced." The issue of grocery prices has been a concern for many Americans, with prices increasing by 2.7% compared to last year. The prepackaged meal basket from Walmart is one of several options available to consumers looking to save money on their Thanksgiving dinner. However, the reduced number of items in the 2025 basket may not provide the same value to customers as previous years' baskets. In related news, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has reported that the average cost of a Thanksgiving dinner for 10 people is expected to be around $50, down from $55 last year. However, the USDA also noted that the cost of groceries is expected to continue to rise in the coming months. As the holiday season approaches, consumers are advised to carefully review the contents and prices of prepackaged meal baskets and other grocery options to ensure they are getting the best value for their money. With the cost of groceries continuing to rise, it is more important than ever for consumers to be informed and make smart purchasing decisions.