Actor Bill Murray playfully confronted National Economic Council director Kevin Hassett during a CNBC interview, questioning his seemingly unwavering smile while discussing the economy. Murray appeared on the show and directly addressed Hassett, expressing concern over his demeanor.
"Why is that man always smiling? I’m a little concerned. Not worried. Concerned," Murray stated to the show's hosts. When Hassett attempted to downplay affordability concerns with economic statistics, Murray interjected with a challenge.
"I would regret it if I didn’t take this opportunity," Murray said. "Could you just say the words, ‘My dog just died?’ I want to see what happens to your smile.” Hassett responded, “Well, is it your dog or my dog?” Murray clarified, “Your dog.” Hassett then obliged, saying, “Okay. My dog just died.”
Previously, Hassett faced criticism for referring to the affordability crisis as a "myth" during a Fox Business appearance. He argued that increased household spending indicated an economic boom, stating, "The amount of consumption per household has gone up maybe around $5,000 per household. That’s after inflation, because of the income boom, the capital-spending boom, the fact that people aren’t losing their jobs, all the things that have made the economy great means that [the] affordability crisis, it’s a myth!”