🗞️☀️ Executive Orders, Meme Coins,Looming Labor Strike, and more.

Good morning. It’s Saturday, January 25.

Today, we are covering President Trump’s first week in office, what exactly are meme coins, the looming Costco labor strike, news out of Davos, and more.

Before we dive in, I spent a lot of this week thinking about Trump’s rise back to power, the sweeping executive orders, and the actions he was already taken to remake our society. I was going to write an editorial open diving into this, but I want to acknowledge that I’m not sure I have anything new to add to the ongoing conversation that hasn’t already been said. However, this moment has sharpened our focus here at Good Diet. Our mission isn’t to add to the noise, but to help you make sense of the world around you. We’re committed to focusing on the policies and actions that affect your life, offering clear analysis to help you navigate the next four years. That is how we will be additive to this moment. We’ve got you covered every step of the way.

If you like what Good Diet is building and curating, share our subscribe URL with a friend. Please send feedback directly to me at [email protected].

Best,

Rashad Drakeford

Co-Founder & Publisher, Good Diet

President Trump signed 200 Executive Orders—How Do They Work?

In just the first week of his second term, President Trump has ramped up the use of executive actions, leveraging executive orders, proclamations, and memoranda to push forward his administration’s agenda. These tools, which bypass Congress, are shaping policies on immigration, energy, education, and more. While they allow for swift action, they also highlight the deepening polarization in American politics and the challenges of governing without bipartisan consensus.

• What Are Executive Orders and Their Limitations? Executive orders are directives from the president that carry the force of law without Congressional approval, allowing for swift action. For example, Trump has already issued orders targeting border security and energy policies. However, these orders are limited—they can’t override existing laws and are often challenged in court. Between 2017 and 2021, Trump issued 220 executive orders, but many were blocked or overturned. This reflects the temporary nature of executive orders, as subsequent administrations can undo them, creating a cycle of uncertainty.

• Trump’s Focus Areas in His Second Term: Trump’s second term has focused heavily on immigration, climate, and education, with executive orders reflecting his campaign promises. He reinstated the "Remain in Mexico" program and deployed additional troops to the southern border, echoing his hardline stance from his first term. On climate, Trump declared a national emergency to fast-track fossil fuel projects and rolled back emissions standards, prioritizing energy independence over environmental protection. On education, he’s pushing to redirect federal funds toward school choice initiatives, expanding resources for charter schools and private education at the expense of public schools, drawing criticism for their impact on vulnerable communities.

• The Broader Implications of Executive Actions: While executive orders can drive immediate policy changes, their effectiveness is limited by the lack of bipartisan support and long-term stability. For example, Biden reversed several Trump-era policies during his first week in office, including orders on climate and immigration. Courts also frequently intervene—one-third of Trump’s immigration orders faced legal challenges, including the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) rollback. This back-and-forth creates uncertainty for industries, local governments, and the communities these policies impact most.

• What This Means for Us and the Importance of Local Action: Executive orders may seem distant, but they directly impact critical aspects of our daily lives, from gas prices to healthcare access and education. Local initiatives, like New York City's congestion pricing and California's 2035 ban on gas-powered cars, show how communities can lead the way in addressing climate and policy challenges. According to the EPA, state and local climate actions, such as renewable energy adoption, are driving meaningful reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. These efforts underscore the power of community advocacy and why staying engaged in both local and national policy conversations is crucial for creating lasting change.

The $Trump Meme Coin is worth billions… what is a meme coin?

The Trumps are diving into the cryptocurrency world, and their promotion of meme coins has everyone talking. Meme coins like the newly launched $TRUMP and $MELANIA tokens are making headlines not just because of their ties to the former First Family but also due to the jaw-dropping market valuations they've achieved. This has raised serious questions about financial motives, the risks of speculative crypto markets, and the growing calls for regulation. Let’s unpack the numbers, the hype, and what it means for us.

• What Are Meme Coins, and Why Are They Risky? Meme coins, often launched as jokes or based on internet culture, rely heavily on hype to gain value. For example, Dogecoin, once a meme, reached a market cap of over $85 billion during its peak in 2021 before plummeting. The same volatile nature applies to $TRUMP and $MELANIA coins, making them risky investments. While these coins can generate quick wealth for a few, they leave many others facing substantial losses once the hype dies down.

• The Numbers Behind $TRUMP and $MELANIA Coins: The $TRUMP coin surged to a market capitalization of over $32 billion within days of its launch, driven by fervent support from Trump’s fan base. Similarly, the $MELANIA coin reached a valuation exceeding $5 billion shortly after its debut. These massive valuations highlight the speculative nature of meme coins, as their value is often disconnected from any tangible utility or underlying asset, leaving them highly vulnerable to market manipulation.

• The Crypto Community’s Reaction: The Trumps’ involvement in meme coins has drawn mixed responses within the crypto world. While some see their endorsements as a sign of mainstream adoption, others view it as a distraction from efforts to legitimize cryptocurrency. Market analysts also noted a decline in major meme coins like Dogecoin and Shiba Inu following the $TRUMP and $MELANIA launches, suggesting market saturation or a shift in speculative interest.

• The Regulatory Challenges Ahead: The SEC and other regulatory bodies are already cracking down on crypto scams and unregistered securities, and the Trumps’ high-profile involvement could intensify scrutiny. With $TRUMP and $MELANIA coins amassing billions in value so quickly, regulators are likely to examine whether these tokens were marketed transparently and if investors were adequately informed of the risks. This could lead to broader discussions on tightening regulations for the crypto market as a whole.

• What This Means for Us: For many of us, the crypto space is a mix of excitement and confusion, and these developments make it harder to discern legitimate opportunities from risky schemes. While cryptocurrency holds the potential to democratize finance, projects like these highlight the speculative nature of the market and the need for clearer regulations. If you're thinking about investing in meme coins, it’s essential to do your homework, understand the risks, and recognize the difference between hype and value.

Davos 2025: The Pro-Business and Climate Change Balancing Act

This year’s World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, has been overshadowed by President Trump’s return to office. His influence is evident in the shift of focus from climate action and multilateralism to deregulation, energy independence, and economic growth. On January 20, 2025, Trump signed an executive order withdrawing the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement, a move that has sparked debates about the global fight against climate change and the role of corporate leaders in driving progress. Meanwhile, business leaders are navigating these political dynamics while considering long-term strategies and opportunities in emerging markets like cryptocurrency.

• Trump's Withdrawal from the Paris Agreement: On January 20, 2025, Trump officially signed an executive order withdrawing the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement, marking a significant departure from global climate efforts. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen responded the next day, stating that Europe would “stay the course” and continue working with nations committed to combating global warming. UN climate chief Simon Stiell emphasized that the global transition to clean energy is “unstoppable,” but Trump’s move has cast doubt on America’s role in international climate cooperation. Corporate leaders are now balancing the administration’s priorities with their own long-term sustainability goals.

• Corporate Responses at Davos: Despite Trump’s decision, major companies like Amazon and Google have reaffirmed their climate commitments. Google’s Chief Sustainability Officer, Kate Brandt, highlighted ongoing discussions with the administration about advanced technologies like nuclear and battery storage as potential climate solutions. Meanwhile, CEOs like Jamie Dimon of JPMorgan Chase have shifted their tone, expressing support for tariffs and deregulation as necessary for national security, even if they contribute to short-term inflation. This reflects a broader pivot in Davos discussions toward economic growth and energy independence.

• Global Focus on Energy Security: With energy independence becoming a central theme under Trump’s policies, Davos attendees have shifted their focus to securing reliable energy sources amidst geopolitical uncertainty. European leaders reiterated commitments to renewable energy, aiming to cut reliance on Russian gas by 75% by 2030 and accelerate the EU’s Green Deal agenda. In contrast, U.S. leaders, backed by Trump’s executive orders, are prioritizing expanded oil and gas production, including reopening federal lands for drilling and fast-tracking pipeline projects. This stark divide highlights the global tension between immediate energy security and long-term climate goals, forcing companies to reassess their strategies. For example, energy giants like BP and Shell spoke at Davos about balancing net-zero goals with growing demand for traditional fuels. These debates underscore the complexity of aligning economic growth with sustainable energy transitions.

• Tensions Between Climate Goals and Business Priorities: The Davos conference, held from January 20 to 25, 2025, traditionally champions climate action. However, Trump’s influence has shifted the narrative toward U.S. economic growth and deregulation. While “Safeguarding the Planet” remains one of the event’s official themes, discussions on renewable energy and emission reduction took a back seat to debates over tariffs and fossil fuel expansion. Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff urged attendees to maintain a “beginner’s mind” to navigate this new political landscape, emphasizing the need to balance economic opportunities with climate responsibilities.

Costco’s Labor Strike Showdown

The ongoing labor negotiations at Costco have caught national attention as workers threaten to strike if an agreement isn’t reached by January 31. The union is pushing for better wages and improved working conditions, arguing that despite Costco’s reputation as a great employer, workers deserve more amid rising inflation and record company profits. Here’s what you need to know about the situation and its broader implications for workers and businesses.

• Why Costco Workers Are Threatening to Strike: Workers are asking for wage increases of 10-12%, citing rising living costs and a disconnect between their pay and Costco’s record $5.8 billion profit in 2024, up 15% from the prior year. Additionally, employees are pushing for more predictable scheduling to address work-life balance issues. Union leaders highlight that while Costco offers competitive pay compared to industry standards, it’s no longer sufficient given the economic strain on employees, especially in high-cost states like California.

• How This Could Impact Costco Operations: A strike could disrupt operations at over 130 locations in California, a state responsible for 25% of Costco’s total U.S. revenue. Affected stores could face inventory delays, reduced staffing, and potential closures, leading to frustrated customers and mounting losses for the company. Analysts estimate that a two-week strike could cost Costco upwards of $200 million in revenue, along with potential reputational damage as consumers witness the labor conflict play out publicly.

• What Makes This Strike Significant: Costco has long been viewed as a leader in retail employment, offering hourly wages that average $18-$29 compared to $14-$16 at competitors like Walmart and Target. However, the strike threat underscores a broader trend of workers across industries challenging the gap between corporate profits and wages. With the retail and service sectors comprising 20% of the U.S. workforce, the success or failure of Costco workers’ demands could ripple across other companies and industries.

• What This Means for Workers Nationwide: This potential strike aligns with a growing wave of labor activism. In 2024, union membership in the U.S. grew for the first time in decades, with over 273 strikes recorded, impacting nearly 300,000 workers. If Costco workers secure their demands, it could energize unions nationwide, particularly in industries like fast food, tech, and healthcare, where employees face similar challenges. Conversely, a failed strike might dampen organizing momentum, making this negotiation a critical test for modern labor movements.

Hamas Still Holds Power in Gaza

The recent cease-fire in Gaza marks the end of 15 months of devastating war, but it has left many unresolved issues. Hamas has reasserted its control over Gaza, showcasing its authority despite the heavy losses sustained during the conflict. Israel’s efforts to eliminate Hamas have not removed the group from power, and questions about Gaza’s future governance and stability remain critical.

• Hamas Reasserts Control Despite Devastation: Following the cease-fire, Hamas militants quickly reappeared in Gaza, demonstrating their authority with public displays of force. Despite the destruction of much of their infrastructure and the loss of thousands of members, Hamas has maintained its military and political dominance in Gaza. Their reemergence highlights the failure of Israel’s 15-month campaign to fully dismantle the group.

• Gaza’s Post-War Challenges: The war has left Gaza in ruins, with its infrastructure severely damaged. Municipalities, closely coordinated with Hamas, have begun clearing rubble, surveying damage, and restoring basic services. However, resources are scarce, and many areas remain uninhabitable. The reconstruction of Gaza depends heavily on international aid, which could be complicated by Hamas's continued presence and control.

• The Role of the Cease-Fire: The cease-fire agreement included the release of hostages and marked a pause in the fighting, but it has not resolved the underlying tensions. Israel has made it clear that it does not see this cease-fire as permanent and could resume operations if hostages are not fully released. This tenuous pause raises questions about whether peace is sustainable or if another conflict looms on the horizon.

• Uncertainty About Gaza’s Governance: The international community has proposed that the Palestinian Authority take over Gaza’s governance to avoid another war. However, Hamas has resisted dismantling its military wing, signaling its intention to remain the dominant security force. Israel and Hamas remain at odds, and without a clear alternative for governance, Gaza’s political future hangs in the balance.

Plain English: AI Supremacy, TikTok’s Fate, and Crypto Decadence (Listen)

“Today, tech talk with an old friend of the pod, Kevin Roose of The New York Times, who is also host of the 'Hard Fork' podcast. This is a show about everything. And it’s going to remain a show about everything because I’m a little bit interested in everything. But one cost of that purposeful lack of narrow focus is that sometimes you fail to communicate the gravity of the important things that are happening in the world. And at the moment, I think some of the most important stories in the world are in tech—and more specifically, in the relationship between government and technology. A relationship that is closer now than it’s been in many decades.”

Today, Explained: The Politics of Fire (Listen)

“Wildfires overtook Los Angeles, firefighters ran out of water, and the political finger-pointing began.”

The Weekly Show with Jon Stewart: JON & AOC (Listen)

“As Trump returns to the White House, backed by a coalition of billionaires and blue-collar workers alike, we’re joined by Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY). Together, we confront the growing disconnect between Democrats and their working class roots, discuss strategies for advancing progressive priorities in a resistant Congress, and explore what it would take to rebuild a party that actually delivers for working people.”

Pod Save The World: Biden’s Foreign Policy Farewell (Listen)

“Tommy and Ben discuss Pete Hegseth’s confirmation hearing for Secretary of Defense, President Biden’s final foreign policy speech, and the many global challenges Donald Trump will be inheriting on his first day in office. They also talk about the potential for a last minute ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, Lebanon’s new president, far-right parties and candidates that are ascendant in Croatia, Austria, and Germany, Paul Manafort’s international comeback attempt, and the politics of naming aircraft carriers. Then, Ben speaks with Ian Bremmer, founder and president of the Eurasia Group, about the top global risks of 2025.”

Fresh Air: Remembering David Lynch (Listen)

“Filmmaker and painter David Lynch died January 15 at age 78. He spoke with Terry Gross in 1994 about making his surrealist first movie, Eraserhead, leaving things up for interpretation, and where he finds inspiration. Also, we'll hear from Isabella Rossellini who starred in Lynch's Blue Velvet as a nightclub singer, and Nicolas Cage, who worked with him in Wild At Heart. And our TV critic David Bianculli shares an appreciation.”