

Cato Podcast
Cato Institute
Each week on Cato Podcast, leading scholars and policymakers from the Cato Institute delve into the big ideas shaping our world: individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and peace. Whether unpacking current events, debating civil liberties, exploring technological innovation, or tracing the history of classical liberal thought, we promise insightful analysis grounded in rigorous research and Cato’s signature libertarian perspective. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 4, 2024 • 14min
White House Strongly Supports Widely Abused Surveillance Authorities
Expert Patrick Eddington discusses the White House's support for surveillance authorities despite their history of abuse. Topics include government overreach in digital surveillance, erosion of Fourth Amendment rights, and debates over the renewal of surveillance authorities like Section 702.

Mar 1, 2024 • 22min
Mitch McConnell’s Legacy Includes Freeing Political Speech
John Samples from Cato Institute discusses Mitch McConnell's legacy in reducing political speech regulations, including his defense of flag burning, influence on Citizens United, shaping campaign finance laws, and impact on the Supreme Court.

Feb 29, 2024 • 16min
SCOTUS Hears the NetChoice Cases
Exploring the Supreme Court's scrutiny of laws affecting internet platforms, including debates on user-generated content, free speech, terrorism speech, state laws, and content moderation rights. Hosted by David Insure, Jennifer Huddleston, and Tommy Berry.

Feb 28, 2024 • 11min
A Frosty Reception for Wendy's over Dynamic Pricing
The podcast delves into Wendy's consideration of dynamic pricing for their menus, the controversy surrounding surge pricing in the fast-food industry, consumer reactions to dynamic pricing in various industries, and the debate between politicians and businesses on pricing innovations.

Feb 27, 2024 • 12min
Presidential Candidates Speak (or Not) on Central Bank Digital Currency
Exploring the differing views of Trump and Biden on CBDCs, and how states are preparing for the new currency. Understanding the resistance from political figures and the complexities of implementing CBDCs. Analyzing the silence of President Biden's administration on the subject and the controversies surrounding programmable currencies.

Feb 26, 2024 • 9min
Chiaverini v. Evanoff
The podcast discusses the nuances of malicious prosecution, the Supreme Court's upcoming case, and how authorities can be protected if at least one charge in an arrest is valid. It explores a case involving felony money laundering charges and the legal complexities of challenging charges in the justice system.

Feb 23, 2024 • 8min
FERC's Quorum Problem and US Energy
Exploring the challenges of FERC's quorum problem and its impact on crucial energy infrastructure decisions, including delays in approving gas pipelines and energy market tasks. Discussing the concerns about policy uncertainty and the complexities of appointments and confirmations in a new administration.

Feb 22, 2024 • 14min
Dollarization at the End of the Javier Milei Honeymoon
Exploring Javier Milei's halt in reforms and focus on dollarization in Argentina to combat inflation. Insights on legislative challenges and potential benefits of adopting dollarization from Ecuador. Analyzing risks and credibility of Argentina's approach to currency control.

Feb 21, 2024 • 11min
Has US Middle East Policy Failed?
Analyzing the flaws in US Middle East policy, focusing on military reliance and backing oppressive regimes. Discussing the need for a shift towards reducing military presence and arms sales. Exploring US relations with Saudi Arabia and Israel, highlighting strategic alliances and mutual security guarantees.

5 snips
Feb 20, 2024 • 16min
State Fiscal Health and Cost‐Saving Strategies
Exploring state fiscal health post-pandemic, increased debt expenses, and cost-saving strategies. Discussion on challenges of implementing cost-saving measures, pension reform, and workforce transitions in transit systems. Examining fiscal responsibility in states like Utah, Idaho, Florida, Texas, and California for national economic health.