Cato Podcast

Both Republicans and Democrats pressure the Fed toward different agendas, revealing deeper institutional problems. Norbert Michel and Jai Kedia argue that broad discretion and an inflated view of the Fed's influence enable mission creep and capture regardless of who holds power. The solution? Congressional legislation establishing clear rules. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Travis Fisher, Director of energy and environmental policy studies at the Cato Institute, discusses the urgent intersection of AI and energy policy. He highlights how outdated regulations hinder new energy generation just as AI demand soars. Travis argues for free-market solutions to foster innovation while mitigating risks to consumers. He emphasizes AI's potential to enhance human ingenuity in discovering new energy technologies and calls for permitting reforms to support infrastructure development. The conversation reveals how AI can create unprecedented opportunities across sectors.

Justin Logan, a defense policy analyst advocating for restraint, and Ian Vasquez, a global politics expert focused on Latin America, dive into Trump’s complicated claims of peacemaking amid military escalations in Ukraine and cartel airstrikes. They discuss whether U.S. involvement risks deeper entanglement in the Middle East and the implications of Trump’s pledges. The conversation shifts to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado's recent Nobel Prize win, exploring her role against Maduro’s regime and the impact of election fraud on democracy in Venezuela.

David Bier, Director of Immigration Studies at the Cato Institute, brings his expertise to a discussion on the increasing dangers faced by immigration enforcement officers. He contrasts Trump’s two terms, revealing a more aggressive stance in mass deportations. The podcast delves into the implications of racial profiling, due process erosion, and the use of federal resources for immigration enforcement. Bier also critiques misleading narratives surrounding ICE incidents and argues for targeted strategies that better protect officers while addressing constitutional concerns.

Neal McCluskey, Director for Cato's Center for Educational Freedom, discusses the constitutional risks of Trump's 'Compact with Academia,' highlighting the threats to academic freedom and ideological balance. Adam Michel, Director of Tax Policy Studies, critiques enhanced Obamacare subsidies, presenting economic reasons against their extension. The conversation delves into the implications of federal funding and its politicization of academia, as well as the standoff over budget cuts and potential layoffs within the federal workforce.

Robby Soave, a senior editor at Reason and co-host of Rising at The Hill, dives into the complexities of free speech in the wake of recent media incidents. He discusses the emotional aftermath of the Charlie Kirk assassination and the implications of government-induced speech suppression. Soave emphasizes the need for unwavering First Amendment principles, critiquing FCC overreach and the evolving challenges of cancel culture. The conversation also explores the balance between accountability and constitutional rights in today's digital age.

Joining the discussion are Jeffrey Miron, a Harvard economics lecturer and expert on fiscal policy, and Thomas A. Berry, a constitutional studies director and Supreme Court editor. They dive into the implications of government shutdowns, questioning their actual economic impacts and potential for mass layoffs. The conversation spans legal challenges around layoffs, the Supreme Court's upcoming term, and critical constitutional issues, including the administration's approach to tariffs and independent agencies. Insightful debates on reform proposals and the judicial landscape make this a must-listen!

In this discussion, Patrick Eddington, a senior fellow at the Cato Institute focusing on homeland security and civil liberties, explores the intricate mechanics of government shutdowns. He highlights that Trump's 35-day shutdown sets a precedent for today's contentious politics. Patrick sheds light on how essential services continue while stressing the chaotic impacts on hiring and civil service morale. He warns against executive overreach amidst budget negotiations, emphasizing the fragile state of civil liberties in an increasingly polarized environment.

Jennifer Huddleston, a senior fellow in technology policy, and Brent Skorup, a legal fellow specializing in communications law, dive into pressing issues surrounding government regulation. They unpack FCC Chair Brendan Carr's controversial ultimatum to broadcasters and how it poses potential First Amendment concerns. The discussion spans the evolving landscape of TikTok, AI policy, and calls for deregulating broadcast rules, while also exploring the implications of government pressure on corporate transactions and whether the FCC should be reformed or abolished.

Hester Peirce, SEC Commissioner since 2018, shares her insights on the erosion of financial privacy in America. She criticizes tools like the Consolidated Audit Trail for compromising constitutional rights while advocating for principles-based regulation that promotes innovation. Peirce explores how emerging technologies can empower individuals to regain control over their financial data, challenging the oppressive nature of current financial surveillance. The conversation also delves into balancing market-driven innovation against regulatory frameworks.