They are likely referring to Q3/25 numbers [1].

The problem is the AI bubble, without it it is speculated that the US economy might actually be in a recession [2] - effectively, that web of investments, deals, ownerships, purchase contracts and god knows what is nothing more than wash trading that will come crashing down hard.

That is why for the 99%, the economy doesn't "feel" like 4.3% of growth. If you're not in AI directly or at least adjacent (e.g. datacenter or utility construction), you don't feel any of that money.

[1] https://tradingeconomics.com/united-states/gdp-growth

[2] https://www.cnbc.com/2025/10/14/ai-infrastructure-boom-masks...