U.S. Economy

It's the home stretch, and something we haven't touched on enough is Trump's love affair with Tariffs. In this episode Rick sits down with Edward Goldberg, an adjunct professor at NYU’s Center for Global Affairs and expert on political economy and trade. Together, they explore the dangers of Donald Trump's proposed tariffs and the broader risks of economic isolationism. Goldberg draws historical parallels, such as China’s decision to burn its fleet in 1433 and the Smoot-Hawley Tariff of 1929, to demonstrate the economic consequences of shutting down global trade. They also discuss the misconceptions around globalization, its connection to job loss, and the vital role of immigration and open trade in driving American innovation and prosperity. And to cap things off, Rick rants about the horror show at Madison Square Garden.

Andra Watkins writes: "At every level of government, Fascist Republicans will annihilate federal and state pensions to give tax breaks to their billionaire overlords"

Rick and author Brody Mullins explore how Washington really works, focusing on the power of corporate lobbying and the influence of money in politics. They discuss how corporations often have more power than the government, the incredible amount of time politicians spend raising money, and the role of lobbyists in crafting legislation. Follow Brody Mullins on X @BrodyMullinsDC, and buy his book “The Wolves of K Street” at fine bookstores everywhere.

The conversation between Rick Wilson and Nicholas Kristof covers a wide range of topics, including the state of American politics, social justice, democracy, rural-urban divide, and the role of media. They also discuss the challenges faced by rural communities, the impact of disinformation, and the need for a more nuanced and practical approach to governance. The conversation delves into the economic and social issues affecting different parts of the country, as well as the need for a more inclusive and solution-oriented approach to address these challenges.

Is it really possible, that Trump is intending to spike inflation, cause massive labor shortages, throw the economy into recession and do enormous harm to the global economic system that has driven prosperity here and around the world? "Well, yes," writes Simon Rosenberg, "That’s what he wants to do if he gets into the White House next year."