If you loved 24, then we have a really good chance of being together.
Love is hard to find
There I was, on a first date, and about to reach the end of a conversational diving board as I ask, “So, what are some of your favorite shows?” And I know that if The Office or Stranger Things isn’t on that list then he’s really not the guy for me. We’ve reached this ‘if this, then that’ moment in our relationship. If you liked Sneaky Pete, then we can keep going. If you loved 24, then we have a really good chance of being together.
So there we are. He brings up something safe and time-capsuled, Star Trek, and we swap opinions about it, bring up our favorite episodes, and then someone has to make the next move. I put myself out there and I offer, Have you seen Firefly? And just like, our compatibility is at the test, our second-date potential on the line.
We bat recommendations back and forth. I say to him, “If you like Justified, I bet you’d like Damages.”
He offers, “If you like The Office, then you should definitely check out Arrested Development.”
I think about Gilmore Girls but let that recommendation stall; it’s more best-friend material than my idealistic-guy standard.
So far, the date is going well, I think. I’m getting similar vibes from his side of the table. I feel he already gets me on a basic level, and I appreciate that.
If I’m being honest, I haven’t had the best luck with my past dates. . . or past movie recommendations lately. While there are thousands of shows out there, and as good as the Amazon and Netflix formulas are for recommending shows based on what I’ve watched before, it doesn’t keep me from getting the formulaic movie picks that are totally wrong, blind-date wrong. The best tv recommendations, like men, are ones that no one is talking about, ones that haven’t been sitting on my watch list for months because I’m never quite in the mood for them.
But, this guy, he feels new and exciting. He feels like a guy I wouldn’t second-screen.
So here we are, dessert on the way, and he’s returning the question. What are your favorite shows?
I tell him I like a good story. I can equally like watching a high school science teacher becoming a drug dealer as I can a prostitute flying through space or a card shark playing people the fool. I like shows about lawyers, lovers, demogorgons, or even old western gunslingers and victorian drama. Tell me a good story, and I’m in.
I force myself to think past Raylan Givens sitting on Amazon at this very moment, waiting for my viewing pleasure, and offer up something I think we both might love: Better Call Saul.
It’s his nod of agreement that really does it. My heart thumps around in my chest a bit quicker. I’m starting to feel like I would if I could re-watch 24 for the first time, like I was getting a second chance at the ‘what’s going to happen’ moments.
I’m starting to feel like this guy is more than a Friday night binge.
He gets the check, pays, and we head outside. Tentatively he takes my hand, and I give his a little squeeze in return.
A quest for love and a good show should always be taken seriously. And when you do find that show, it’s a lot like finding marital bliss. Take it from me; love is hard to find. And if you do, then never let it go.
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The selection of a Fed Chair is one of the most significant economic decisions a president can make, as the position directly impacts financial markets, consumer confidence, and international economic relations. Hassett’s name has circulated in financial and political circles as a potential candidate due to his extensive background in economic policy. He previously served as Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers under Trump and has consistently advocated for growth-oriented policies. His nomination could signal continuity with Trump-era economic priorities, but the former president’s reluctance has created uncertainty. Trump’s Reluctance In recent interviews, Trump expressed hesitation over formally nominating Hassett, citing concerns about market volatility and potential political backlash. Analysts suggest several factors could be influencing his reluctance: Public Scrutiny: Nominating a high-profile economist invites intense media attention and political debate. Any misstep could impact Trump’s image and perceived influence over economic policy. Policy Differences: Although Hassett and Trump worked closely during his administration, disagreements over interest rates, inflation control, or fiscal strategy could cause hesitation. Timing and Strategy: The timing of a Fed nomination is critical. Trump may be weighing market conditions, congressional response, or broader political calculations before making a decision. Market Implications Financial markets respond strongly to news about Fed leadership. The Chair influences interest rates, lending policies, and overall investor confidence. Uncertainty around the nomination can lead to short-term market volatility, affecting stock prices, bond yields, and the U.S. dollar. Economists argue that hesitation in announcing a nominee could signal indecision or caution, which may affect investor sentiment. “Markets value predictability,” says Julia Ramirez, a senior economist at Global Insights. “A prolonged period without a clear candidate can create temporary instability, particularly in sectors sensitive to interest rate changes, such as banking and real estate.” Hassett’s Profile Kevin Hassett is widely recognized for his academic and policy expertise. He co-authored several influential works on economic growth, tax policy, and productivity. During his tenure as Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers, Hassett emphasized tax reform, deregulation, and measures aimed at stimulating investment. Supporters argue that Hassett’s experience equips him to manage complex economic challenges, including inflationary pressures, labor market fluctuations, and post-pandemic recovery strategies. Critics, however, question whether his policy preferences align with the current economic landscape, particularly with inflation and debt concerns dominating headlines. Political Dynamics Trump’s reluctance also reflects broader political dynamics. The Federal Reserve, while independent, often becomes a focal point for political debate. Decisions about leadership, policy direction, and rate adjustments carry political weight. By hesitating to nominate Hassett, Trump may be signaling caution, balancing his desire to influence economic policy with the need to avoid potential criticism from lawmakers, economists, or the media. The situation underscores the intersection of politics and economics, where decisions extend beyond technical expertise to considerations of public perception and political strategy. Historical Context Presidents have historically faced scrutiny over Fed appointments. The Chair’s term typically spans four years, but the position’s influence extends well beyond the tenure of any single administration. Past presidents have occasionally delayed nominations, weighing the impact on markets, the Senate confirmation process, and economic policy continuity. Trump’s reluctance echoes these historical patterns. By pausing, he may be ensuring that any nomination strengthens both market stability and his political positioning, rather than generating controversy or uncertainty. Potential Outcomes Several scenarios could emerge from Trump’s hesitation: Nomination Moves Forward: After careful consideration, Trump could formally nominate Hassett, signaling confidence in his abilities and reinforcing Trump-era economic priorities. Alternative Candidate: Hesitation might indicate Trump is exploring other options, potentially favoring a candidate with different policy views or broader bipartisan appeal. 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Conclusion Trump’s reluctance to nominate Kevin Hassett as Fed Chair highlights the complex balance between politics, economics, and leadership. While Hassett’s credentials suggest he could provide stability and continuity, the former president’s hesitation underscores the broader considerations at play, from market confidence to political optics. As discussions continue, the financial world and the public remain attentive. The Fed Chairship is one of the most consequential appointments in U.S. economic history, affecting everything from consumer borrowing to global markets. Whether Hassett eventually receives the nomination or an alternative candidate emerges, the situation illustrates the delicate interplay between political decision-making and economic stewardship—a dynamic that shapes not just Washington, but the daily financial lives of millions of Americans.
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