Mike Konczal, Senior Director of Policy and Research at the Economic Security Project and former Chief Economist for the National Economic Council, joins in to explore the concept of 'abundance.' He critiques the deregulatory themes in the recent book by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson, highlighting that more isn't always better. Konczal dives into the complexities of housing policy and the failures of the market to address affordability. Their discussion challenges the notion that innovation alone can resolve economic inequalities, advocating for vital government intervention.
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insights INSIGHT
Understanding 'Abundance' Concept
The "abundance" idea centers on removing outdated regulations to boost supply and build more efficiently.
It is tied to housing, green energy, and innovation but has varied interpretations and impacts in politics.
insights INSIGHT
The Limits of Deregulation Focus
Many barriers hindering progress are regulatory but not all regulations are obstructive; some serve important purposes.
Deregulatory emphasis in abundance discourse risks oversimplifying complex issues like healthcare access.
insights INSIGHT
Public Options Missing from Abundance
Expanding public options like Medicare for all could significantly increase abundance by reducing costs and improving access.
The abundance narrative mostly overlooks such public sector expansions, focusing instead on deregulation.
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This book delves into the reasons behind America's current inability to address significant challenges such as housing shortages, climate crises, and infrastructure issues. Dunkelman argues that a 'vetocracy' allows nearly anyone to stifle progress and that progressive reforms have inadvertently contributed to this gridlock. He suggests that progressivism must rediscover its roots to break through the current paralysis and restore faith in public institutions.
Abundance
Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson
What does “abundance” actually mean—and who is it really for? In this episode, Goldy and Paul welcome back economic policy expert Mike Konczal to unpack the big new idea dominating political discourse: abundance. They dive into the buzz around Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson’s book “Abundance,” and Konczal’s sharp critique of its deregulatory leanings, missed opportunities, and neoliberal undertones. From housing policy to green energy to the myth that deregulation alone can fix America’s problems, this episode challenges the idea that more is always better, and asks what it would really take to build a future that’s abundant for everyone—not just the rich.
Mike Konczal is the Senior Director of Policy and Research at the Economic Security Project, where he oversees policy development, research, and strategic analysis to advance its ideas. Previously, he served as a Special Assistant to President Biden for Economic Policy and Chief Economist for the National Economic Council.
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