Dramatic evidence that Americans are cutting back on discretionary spending in the face of their President's prediction of doom. I made a quick trip to Chicago over the last few days, and was stunned by the empty airplanes and terminals I found in both directions. The picture below was taken at 4 PM, Monday, February 9^th at Chicago Midway Airport, normally a bustling facility with long lines. I was able to check my bags and go through security yesterday with no waiting at all, at a time when the evening rush should be beginning.