Taxpayers Skirt a Gutted IRS & United Eyes an American Airlines Takeover

This episode of Morning Brew Daily tackles two major stories: the dramatic weakening of the IRS under the Trump administration and the potential mega-merger between United and American Airlines. The hosts highlight how the IRS has lost 27% of its workforce and nearly all of its senior leadership, leading to a projected $643 billion drop in tax revenue despite saving $46 billion in spending—creating an $861 billion fiscal hole. They explore the implications of reduced enforcement, especially for business owners who may exploit loopholes, while noting that most wage earners still pay their taxes. On the airline front, United is reportedly in talks with American Airlines for a merger that would consolidate over a third of the U.S. market, sparking antitrust concerns. The hosts examine the personal backstory of United CEO Scott Kirby, who was passed over at American, and question whether such a deal is viable amid regulatory scrutiny and shifting industry dynamics. The episode also touches on resilient U.S. bank earnings, global economic tensions, and the booming gummy supplement market—led by Groons’ $1.2 billion exit to Unilever—driven by social media, influencer culture, and the rise of GLP-1 drugs. Finally, the hosts share personal recommendations: Misogi, a Japanese practice of committing to one transformative goal per year, and FlightRadar24, a flight-tracking app that’s both practical and entertaining.