Jan 9, 2025

When Jimmy Carter leveled with the American people

Karl Schumacher/White House/AFP via Getty Images

Today is a national day to remember former President Jimmy Carter. This morning, we'll reflect on Carter's "malaise" speech.

Segments From this episode

President Jimmy Carter's economic plea to the American people

by David Brancaccio and Alex Schroeder

Jan 9, 2025

On July 15, 1979, amid inflation and long lines at the gas pump, Carter made a speech that in many ways exemplified his presidency.

It became known as the "malaise speech," even though President Jimmy Carter never used that word himself. And at the center of the speech was a call to change both the spirit and economy of America.

George Rose/Getty Images

LISTEN

EMBED

A reunion of unions

by Samantha Fields

Two major union are joining forces again. The Service Employees International Union, or SEIU, and the AFL-CIO are merging after 20 years apart. Together, the two will represent nearly 15 million workers.

Listen Now

The team

David Brancaccio Host

Leanna Byrne Host, BBC

Kelly Silvera Executive Producer

Meredith Garretson Morbey Senior Producer

Alex Schroeder Producer

Erika Soderstrom Producer

Ariana Rosas Producer

Nic Perez Director/Producer

Dylan Miettinen Digital Producer

John Bruington Media Producer

Jesson Duller Media Producer

Brian Allison Technical Director

James Graham Producer, BBC

Jo Critcher Producer, BBC

Naomi Rainey Producer, BBC

Latest Episodes From Our Shows

7:36 AM PST