In a bold and baffling move to connect with younger audiences, the White House has launched a TikTok channel dedicated to explaining inflation through dance challenges and viral trends. Dubbed “The Fiscal Funk,” the channel features government officials busting moves while attempting to simplify economic concepts in 30-second clips.
The Debut Video: ‘Price Hike Shuffle’
The inaugural TikTok video, titled “The Price Hike Shuffle,” showcases Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell performing synchronized steps to a remix of MC Hammer’s “U Can’t Touch This.” The video features Powell dramatically tossing Monopoly money into the air while Yellen points to a graph showing rising gas prices.
“Inflation—it’s no joke, but we’re here to make it approachable,” Yellen says, before launching into the chorus: “Too much demand, not enough supply, prices go up—don’t ask why!”
The Internet Reacts
The TikTok quickly went viral, amassing millions of views within hours. Reactions, however, were mixed. Supporters praised the effort as a creative way to engage Gen Z in complex policy issues. Critics, on the other hand, questioned whether choreographed moonwalks could truly explain monetary policy.
“I’m still not sure what inflation is,” one user commented, “but Jerome Powell doing the robot is something I can’t unsee.”
New Challenges Planned
According to White House insiders, “The Price Hike Shuffle” is just the beginning. Future TikTok challenges include:
The Wage Gap Wobble: A dance routine highlighting stagnant wages set to “Money (That’s What I Want)” by Barrett Strong.
The Supply Chain Slide: Featuring Pete Buttigieg navigating an obstacle course of empty boxes to symbolize global shipping delays.
The Interest Rate Two-Step: Where Powell teaches viewers how small rate hikes can lead to big economic ripples—all while line dancing.
Press Briefing Goes Viral
At a recent press briefing, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed the administration’s commitment to the TikTok initiative. “We believe it’s important to meet Americans where they are—on their phones, scrolling for hours,” she said. When asked whether the dances trivialize serious economic issues, Jean-Pierre replied, “If people can learn about inflation while attempting the Dougie, isn’t that a win for everyone?”
Political Reactions
Unsurprisingly, the new initiative has drawn criticism from both sides of the aisle. Senator Mitch McConnell called the TikToks “an insult to the dignity of the office,” while Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez offered cautious support. “It’s better than another press release no one reads,” she tweeted, “but let’s hope the dances are backed by real solutions.”
Experts Weigh In
Economists are divided on the effectiveness of the TikTok strategy. “This could be an innovative way to demystify economics,” said Dr. Linda Spinwheel of the Center for Policy Engagement. “Or it could be the equivalent of trying to put out a forest fire with a squirt gun.”
What’s Next?
The White House has hinted at collaborations with popular TikTok influencers to amplify the campaign. Rumors are swirling that Charli D’Amelio may join Janet Yellen for a duet called “Quantitative Twerking,” though this remains unconfirmed.
As “The Fiscal Funk” gains traction, only time will tell whether dance moves can truly cure economic confusion. For now, the administration seems content to spin, slide, and shuffle its way into the hearts (and feeds) of Americans everywhere.
