South County Mail

Missouri and the World

economic policy

Why mortgage rates remain stubbornly high despite Federal Reserve rate cuts

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Many Americans hoping for relief in the housing market are still waiting.

Despite a series of Federal Reserve interest-rate cuts in 2024 and 2025, mortgage rates remain elevated, frustrating homebuyers, homeowners looking to refinance, and anyone hoping for a more affordable path into the housing market.

According to data released by Freddie Mac on June 4, the average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage stood at 6.48 percent. While that is slightly below some recent peaks, it remains well above the levels many buyers became accustomed to during the pandemic years. [Read more…] about Why mortgage rates remain stubbornly high despite Federal Reserve rate cuts

Missouri voters could decide whether to eliminate the state income tax

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Missouri voters may soon decide one of the biggest tax policy questions the state has faced in decades: whether to gradually eliminate the state income tax and potentially replace much of the lost revenue with expanded sales taxes.

The proposal, approved by the Missouri Legislature this year, would phase out Missouri’s top individual income tax rate over time if certain state revenue targets are met.

Supporters say the plan could make Missouri more competitive economically, while critics warn it could increase costs for ordinary families and reduce funding for public services. [Read more…] about Missouri voters could decide whether to eliminate the state income tax

Zohran Mamdani’s first 100 days are testing democratic socialist ideas in New York

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Since taking office at the start of 2026, Zohran Mamdani has begun rolling out a series of policies aimed at lowering living costs, expanding public services and increasing taxes on wealthy property owners in New York City.

The democratic socialist mayor, who won office on promises including free childcare, rent reform and stronger labor protections, is now using his first months in office to test whether progressive economic policies can deliver measurable results in one of the world’s most expensive cities.

A report published by The Better News says Mamdani’s administration has already begun implementing several major campaign pledges after roughly 100 days in office. [Read more…] about Zohran Mamdani’s first 100 days are testing democratic socialist ideas in New York