The US Has Been in Decline. Can Tariffs Bring Renewal? | Guests: Stephen Moore & Hiram Sasser | 4/3/25
Apr 3, 2025
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In this discussion, economist Stephen Moore and Hiram Sasser, Executive General Counsel at the First Liberty Institute, tackle the complexities of President Trump’s tariff strategy and its potential impact on America's economic revival. They delve into the implications of rising national debt, explore the overwhelming influence of the judiciary, and argue for a return to fundamental principles. The conversation encourages a proactive stance toward trade policies, highlighting the urgent need for America to reclaim its economic leadership and values in an increasingly turbulent landscape.
Glenn Beck emphasizes that America is at a crucial crossroads, presenting a choice between managing decline or pursuing meaningful reform.
Stephen Moore argues that President Trump's tariffs might provide economic benefits, despite potential short-term price increases for consumers.
The podcast highlights alarming trends in economic mobility, showing that fewer young adults out-earn their parents, contributing to widespread financial frustration.
A significant concern is the state of U.S. infrastructure, which receives a C-grade, reflecting years of neglect and the need for urgent investment.
Deep dives
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Media Censorship Concerns
The host emphasizes the ongoing struggles against censorship and misinformation propagated by mainstream media outlets. There’s a call to action for listeners to rate and review the podcast, suggesting that public support is crucial for breaking through the biases of Big Tech algorithms. The speaker asserts that their efforts aim to deliver unfiltered truths to the audience, reinforcing the notion that engaging in dialogue and spreading awareness is essential to counteract mainstream narratives. They frame the podcast as part of a larger movement, encouraging audience participation in amplifying the message.
Implications of Increased Tariffs
The discussion includes the impact that proposed tariffs may have on everyday consumers, specifically predicting a potential increase of around 5% in grocery bills. This rise translates to approximately an additional $7 for families spending $150 weekly, which could exacerbate financial strain for many Americans already grappling with inflation. The host discusses factors contributing to these economic challenges, including government decisions and global market dynamics, highlighting that these choices represent a system where every dollar spent is under pressure. This direction raises concerns about the overarching financial health of the average American family.
The False Hope of Economic Recovery
A critical analysis is presented on the current state of the United States as it nears a crossroads in terms of economic and social policy. The speaker refers to a national debt exceeding $35 trillion, coupled with unsustainable annual deficits, suggesting that the current trajectory is leading towards decay rather than recovery. Both political parties are scrutinized for perpetuating this cycle of mismanagement, which affects critical social aspects such as education and security. The rhetoric around the challenges faced by the nation zeros in on the broad belief that neither party can effectively steer the country towards a prosperous future.
Generational Economic Challenges
A significant concern articulated in the conversation revolves around the financial prospects for younger generations compared to those of their parents. Statistical insights reveal that a decreasing proportion of young adults earn more than their parents did at the same age, marking a stark decline in economic mobility. The commentary highlights that current economic conditions, including stagnant wages and increased housing costs, push younger individuals toward greater adversity. The takeaway is that the opportunity for upward mobility appears increasingly elusive, eliciting a shared sense of frustration among the populace regarding their future.
Infrastructure Decline and Its Consequences
The host provides a sobering overview of the state of U.S. infrastructure, drawing attention to a report from the American Society of Civil Engineers that assigns a C-grade to the country's infrastructure. This poor rating serves as a reflection of neglected roads, bridges, and facilities that undermine overall societal strength and safety. The speaker laments the persistent underinvestment in necessary updates and repairs over the years, leading to deteriorating public services and impact on everyday lives. Furthermore, a projected investment gap of $2.6 trillion over the next decade underscores the urgency for immediate action.
Rising Crime Rates and Urban Decay
Mentioned in the dialogue are the alarming statistics indicating an 18% rise in homelessness and a 5% uptick in violent crime rates since 2019 in major urban areas. The speaker argues that a lack of effective leadership and appropriate responses from political entities has exacerbated these issues, leading to a shared sentiment of insecurity among citizens. The focus is placed on how the current administration, along with some Republican factions, seem more inclined to pursue vague global agendas rather than addressing domestic problems. The frustration is palpable as it is suggested that the general public is tired of being sidelined while their immediate concerns are left unaddressed.
The Dangers of Managed Decline
A pressing issue addressed is the concept of managed decline, where the speaker suggests that current leadership appears to accept reduced expectations for the nation rather than pursuing significant reforms leading to recovery. This philosophy is critiqued as a troubling mindset that saps ambition and innovation, leaving citizens in a perpetual state of dissatisfaction. The speaker contends that most individuals envision a brighter future for themselves and their families, yet perceive a stark disconnect with their leaders' actions. This call to action implores citizens to recognize their potential to shape the future, urging them not to resign themselves to a narrative of inevitable decline.
President Trump announced his widespread reciprocal tariffs yesterday, and Glenn has some thoughts. America is at a crossroads, and Glenn says we have two choices. The first choice is how to manage our decline. The elites don't believe our system is working, so they've been managing our downfall. The U.S. national debt is at $35 trillion, and we aren't making enough to pay it off. Glenn argues the elites need America's decline to maintain power. Committee to Unleash Prosperity's Stephen Moore returns to explain why he believes Trump's tariffs will benefit America. First Liberty Institute executive general council Hiram Sasser joins to discuss the issue of the judiciary growing more powerful than the executive branch. BlazeTV host Steve Deace joins to explain how America can separate its powers and oust the people manipulating the system to maintain power. Glenn goes through all the new tariffs President Trump has implemented and theorizes why he's doing it. Glenn argues that President Trump shouldn't just use his tariff plan to build a nation that survives. He must build a nation that leads.
