Liz Peek analyzes the resilience of the U.S. economy, where strong consumer spending and business optimism persist despite high oil prices and stagnant job growth. While the Fed weighs interest rate hikes to curb inflation, a "wealth effect" from a robust stock market continues to buoy higher-end consumers. Politically, a "civil war" is brewing within the Democratic Party as far-left candidates aligned with the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) challenge the establishment in key swing states like Michigan and Wisconsin. These ideological divisions raise significant questions regarding the electability of progressive candidates in the upcoming general elections. (3)