Cato Podcast

Marc Joffe, an expert on economic development strategies, shares insights into how states can rethink their approach to business subsidies. He tackles the detrimental effects of competitive subsidies that burden taxpayers and outlines the role of site consultants in this system. Joffe discusses potential reforms that promote transparency and interstate cooperation, drawing on rivalries like that between Kansas and Missouri. He encourages lawmakers to reevaluate subsidy models, advocating for a more thoughtful approach to attract businesses without unsustainable costs.

Erec Smith, an advocate for reforming political debates, dives into the flaws in current presidential debate formats. He critiques the focus on entertainment over meaningful discourse and suggests a shift towards a more conversational style reminiscent of ancient philosophical dialogues. Smith also reflects on the nostalgia for past debates, like the unrealized 1964 showdown between Kennedy and Goldwater. He discusses the impact of social media on debate dynamics and emphasizes the importance of direct engagement with the public.

Kyle Sweetland, a representative from the Pacific Legal Foundation, sheds light on the growing challenges property owners face with squatters. He discusses diverse legal frameworks in states like New York and Georgia, highlighting the frustrations of the eviction process. Sweetland emphasizes the need for modern reforms to address outdated squatting laws and explores the complexities that owners encounter amidst eviction moratoriums. With fascinating real-life cases, he reveals the significant legal and financial consequences for struggling homeowners.

Deirdre McCloskey, an economist and historian, joins fellow economist Art Carden to unravel the bizarre legacy of outdated laws originally aimed at brothels that now stifle boarding houses. They tackle how these restrictions contribute to socioeconomic segregation and limit affordable housing for students and immigrants. The duo also explores the shocking potential GDP boost from flexible migration policies, the historical roots of the current housing crisis, and the push and pull of community desires against the need for diverse housing solutions.

Patrick Eddington, a policy analyst at Cato focusing on surveillance and accountability, dives into the critical issues surrounding warrantless federal surveillance. He sheds light on the challenges of obtaining internal audits revealing unauthorized FBI queries on Americans. The conversation highlights the urgent need for transparency amid reauthorization efforts and discusses strategies to ensure accountability. Eddington advocates for restoring constitutional safeguards, stressing the importance of proper cause and warrants to protect individual rights against invasive surveillance practices.

Justin Logan, an analyst skeptical about the likelihood of a new nuclear deal with Iran, shares his insights on the complexities of the situation. He argues that hopes for renewing the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) are misguided. The discussion highlights Iran's escalating nuclear activities since the U.S. withdrawal in 2018 and the challenges of negotiating with a regime while simultaneously pushing for regime change. Logan details the geopolitical implications and potential crises related to uranium enrichment that could arise.

Nick Anthony, a commentator on economic policies, critiques Donald Trump's proposal to cap credit card interest rates. He discusses the dangers of government price controls, emphasizing how they can conflict with personal freedoms and harm vulnerable consumers. The conversation dives into the historical implications of similar regulations and how they distort consumer choices and market availability. Anthony warns that limiting interest rates could lead to unintended consequences, reducing access to credit for those who need it most.

Ian Vasquez, a Cato expert on international affairs, dives into Mexico's alarming political landscape under President Andrés Manuel López Obrador. He discusses the centralization of power and the implications for market freedom, emphasizing the adverse effects on everyday citizens. The conversation highlights threats to democracy, particularly through judicial reforms that undermine independence and human rights. Vasquez warns of the repercussions for Mexico's trade relations, particularly with the United States, as these shifts take hold.

Neal McCluskey, a leading expert on education policy, explores the changing landscape of religious education and school choice. He discusses recent court rulings that favor taxpayer funding for religious schools, arguing for parental rights in choosing educational paths. McCluskey highlights ongoing debates over integrating religious elements in public schools and examines historical Blaine amendments that have impacted religious education. This conversation sheds light on the evolving legal dynamics and advocates for greater educational freedom for families.

Jennifer Huddleston, a representative from Cato, and Tommy Berry, a team member, dive into the legal complexities surrounding TikTok's new divest-or-ban law. They discuss the federal court's review of First Amendment rights and how these legal challenges impact creators and users. From national security concerns to the implications for digital free speech, they illuminate how Supreme Court cases shape the legal landscape for tech platforms. This exploration highlights the crucial balance between regulation and personal freedoms in the digital age.