Best of the Program | Guests: Sen. Mike Lee & Vivek Ramaswamy | 2/26/25
Feb 26, 2025
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Sen. Mike Lee, a United States Senator from Utah known for his conservative views, discusses the need for the REINS Act to enhance legislative accountability. Vivek Ramaswamy, an entrepreneur and political candidate, shares insights from his gubernatorial campaign in Ohio, focusing on innovation and fair wages to reshape views on immigration. They delve into the economic significance of undocumented workers and the potential of substantial budget reforms to promote independence and growth. A compelling critique of historical injustices also enriches the conversation.
The essential role of undocumented workers in sustaining the U.S. economy, particularly in agriculture, highlights the need for compassionate immigration policies.
Future leaders must focus on harnessing technology and vocational training to adapt the workforce to changes and prevent economic dislocation.
Deep dives
The Economic Role of Undocumented Workers
Undocumented workers are essential to the U.S. economy, as they contribute significantly to various industries, particularly agriculture and construction. Approximately 70% of agricultural laborers are foreign-born, with nearly half lacking legal documentation. Without their labor, agricultural output could drop by 60%, resulting in drastic price increases for food products like milk and orange juice. This economic reliance highlights the vital role these workers play in sustaining the American way of life, making the case for compassion rather than exclusion.
Historical Parallels to Current Immigration Debates
The discussion around undocumented labor draws uncomfortable parallels to historical justifications for slavery, suggesting that society has often relied on an underclass for economic stability. The argument that without these workers the economy would collapse echoes the rhetoric used in the past to defend slavery as 'a necessary good.' This rhetoric continues to present a moral dilemma, as it underlines exploitation while masking it under a guise of economic pragmatism. The implication is that current policies may perpetuate fear and inequality, rather than addressing the root causes of these issues.
Potential Solutions Beyond Deportation
Instead of relying solely on undocumented labor, innovation through mechanization and better legal pathways for work could address labor shortages while maintaining dignity for workers. Cultivating technological solutions to replace strenuous, low-wage jobs may uncover a future where labor is equitably compensated. Additionally, incentivizing higher wages for jobs that the local population currently avoids could reduce dependence on undocumented workers. This proactive approach emphasizes compassion rooted in justice rather than fear-driven policies.
Leadership and Future Adaptation to Change
Future leaders must not only respond to the rising role of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, but also guide their states in utilizing these tools effectively to prevent job losses. Training the current workforce to work alongside AI, rather than fearing its development, will be essential for retaining jobs while enhancing productivity. Creating a robust vocational training infrastructure can prepare workers to adapt to technological advancements across various sectors. This approach encourages a forward-thinking mindset where both individual dignity and economic growth are prioritized.
Glenn reacts to radical leftist Washington Democrat Rep. Pramila Jayapal's recent meltdown about President Trump cracking down on illegal immigration. "If we don't have this labor, our way of life will crumble." Where have you heard that argument used before? The Left's view on immigration is exploitation masked by progressive "compassion." Former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy joins to discuss his campaign for Ohio governor and the policies he plans to implement. Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) joins to discuss why we must pass the REINS Act.