Not meaning to insult you.
I was referring to the government announcement of "greater than expected economic growth" as "all lies and jest".
After accounting for inflation, it appears that the American economy is in decline. Certainly, the living standards of most Americans are in decline, due to prices and taxes rising faster than income.
Which is what the rest of your post said too. I cannot claim it as an original thought.
"I stand on the shoulders of giants".