Statecraft

Michael Kratsios, the White House's top science and technology advisor, discusses key insights on AI and emerging tech policy. He outlines the administration's ambitious AI Action Plan, emphasizing innovation and infrastructure. Kratsios explains the drive for a golden age of American innovation and the need for new funding models in research. He touches on balancing tech exports with national sovereignty, the importance of public engagement in policy-making, and challenges in recruiting technical talent for government. His vision includes fostering collaboration to enhance U.S. leadership in science and technology.

Will Poff-Webster, former legislative counsel, brings insider knowledge on the bipartisan ROAD to Housing Act that aims to tackle the national housing crisis. Alex Armlovich, a seasoned housing policy analyst, breaks down the difference between affordability and supply shortages. Brian Potter shares insights on manufactured housing and its potential impact on costs. Together, they discuss how unexpected political alliances helped pass this comprehensive bill, its key provisions, and the implications for housing policy across the U.S.

Bobby Fijan, co-founder of the American Housing Corporation, dives into the critical issue of family housing in urban areas. He shares insights from his research on why modern apartments often cater more to roommates than families. Bobby reveals how the financial crisis led to smaller units and why families prioritize extra bedrooms above amenities like yards. He discusses potential zoning solutions and argues for returning to proven pre-war designs. His passion to adapt cities for families could be the key to keeping them from moving to the suburbs.

Anup Malani, a Professor of Law at the University of Chicago and the first Chief Economist at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, dives into the complexities of American healthcare. He discusses why the U.S. spends so much yet struggles with life expectancy, exploring issues like Medicare fraud and the incentives driving up costs. Anup also highlights ways to curb expenses using site-neutral payments, the impact of demographics on spending, and innovative approaches to drug pricing and health data interoperability.

Zach Liscow, a Yale Law School professor and former Chief Economist at the Office of Management and Budget, sheds light on America’s staggering infrastructure costs. He discusses the reasons behind these expenses, specifically the regulatory and procurement hurdles that inflate prices. Comparing subway construction costs, he points out that New York’s expenses far exceed those of Paris. Liscow explains how retiring engineers and talent retention issues exacerbate the problem, calling for better data and reforms to streamline processes and improve outcomes.

Dean Ball, a former senior policy advisor at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, discusses the intricacies of crafting the AI Action Plan. He highlights the challenges of interagency cooperation and the role of political support in implementing federal AI strategies. The conversation delves into Republican perspectives on AI safety and the impact of governance dynamics within the Trump administration. Ball also explores the complexities of navigating information flow in government and the urgent need for comprehensive policies in the evolving tech landscape.

Dan Wang, author of 'Breakneck: China's Quest to Engineer the Future,' brings a fresh perspective from his decade in China. He explores the intriguing role of lawyers in U.S. governance versus technocrats in China, offering insights into their impacts on infrastructure. The conversation delves into the complexities of iPhone manufacturing relocation, the chilling legacy of China's one-child policy, and the challenges faced by Chinese nationals seeking freedom. Wang's multi-faceted view enables a compelling comparison of Chinese and American political cultures.

Judge Glock, an economic historian and Director of Research at the Manhattan Institute, dives into civil service reform, spotlighting state-level reforms since the 1990s that enhance hiring and firing flexibility. He discusses how states like Texas and Florida have adopted at-will employment, contrasting this with the rigid federal hiring process. Judge emphasizes the improved effectiveness seen in state governments, while addressing the lack of politicization that federal reforms fear. His insights challenge conventional wisdom about government HR practices.

Dr. Rob Johnston, an intelligence community veteran and author of "Analytic Culture in the US Intelligence Community," dives deep into the art and science of intelligence analysis. He explores the reasons behind the frequent mispredictions in intelligence and the challenges of finding analysts with the right linguistic skills. Johnston emphasizes the need for cognitive diversity and improved communication between analysts and policymakers. Additionally, he critiques the CIA's reliance on technology over human intelligence and advocates for systemic changes to enhance analytical capabilities.

In this discussion, Dean Karlan, a renowned development economist and former chief economist at USAID, dives deep into the challenges facing foreign aid. He shares insights on ethical dilemmas in prioritizing aid and the need for evidence-based interventions. Karlan critiques USAID's reliance on large contractors and emphasizes the importance of accountability through impact evaluations. He advocates for innovative strategies to enhance the effectiveness of foreign aid, calling for a shift away from the status quo towards evidence-driven approaches that foster sustainable development.