Letters from an American Live with Heather Cox Richardson
36 snips
Nov 5, 2025 
Ro Khanna, U.S. Representative from California and advocate for progressive capitalism, shares his insights on transforming the economy. He discusses how technology can revitalize rural communities and proposes a Marshall Plan-style approach. Khanna emphasizes the importance of centering care work within economic strategies, including support for universal childcare. He analyzes the challenges faced by Biden's initiatives and advocates for taxing extreme wealth to fund social programs. Activism and community organizing are also highlighted as vital for achieving economic justice.
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Place-Based Progressive Capitalism
- Ro Khanna argues that place and community matter for economic opportunity, not just mobile capital and markets.
- He calls for a progressive capitalism combining investments in health, education, and local capabilities to let communities flourish.
Build Local Tech And Training Hubs
- Create a comprehensive U.S. economic development strategy with a White House Economic Development Council and regional plans.
- Build local tech institutes, trade schools, and certifications so residents can access AI, data, and cyber jobs without relocating.
Care Economy Is A Wealth Engine
- Khanna emphasizes the care economy (childcare, eldercare, education) as existing local infrastructure that requires investment and better pay.
- He argues combining a care economy with technology and manufacturing creates wealth and multiplies local economic impact.
