Cato Podcast

John Samples, Vice President at the Cato Institute and expert on campaign finance, discusses Mitch McConnell’s notable influence on political speech in the U.S. Senate. Samples highlights McConnell's role in reducing campaign finance regulations and promoting free speech, even amid political risks. The conversation also delves into the legacy of Citizens United and its impact on corporate political spending, as well as McConnell's significant shaping of Supreme Court decisions like Roe v. Wade, revealing the long-term implications for the Republican Party.

Charles Murray, author of 'By the People: Rebuilding Liberty without Permission,' argues for civil disobedience as a remedy against oppressive federal regulations. He discusses the historical context of liberty and critiques the erosion of constitutional intent. Murray advocates for private defense funds to support those facing government scrutiny and highlights surprising victories against regulatory agencies. The conversation touches on America's cultural diversity, revealing a unifying desire across political lines to reclaim personal freedoms from bureaucratic control.

Join Russell Roberts, a Professor of Economics at George Mason University and host of the EconTalk podcast, as he dives into the nuances of economic communication during crises. He distinguishes between financial and economic crises, emphasizing the significance of understanding their differences. Roberts advocates for empathy in economic literature, using character-driven dialogue to present diverse perspectives. He also calls for honest dialogue within the libertarian community, stressing the need to balance critiques of market dynamics with an appreciation for the government's role.

Todd Zawicki, a professor of law at George Mason University, dives deep into the implications of the 17th Amendment on U.S. Senate elections. He discusses whether repealing it could restore state representation and analyze federalism's evolution. Zawicki critiques modern election methods, celebrating the historical diversity of senator appointments. He argues that returning to state legislature selections may enhance state authority and realign the balance with federal power. This thought-provoking conversation challenges listeners to reconsider current governance structures.

The discussion kicks off with a deep dive into how liberals, conservatives, and libertarians view government roles as framed by the Constitution. It highlights the libertarian stance on individual rights and the critical importance of the 9th and 10th Amendments. The conversation then navigates the difference between negative and positive rights, stressing the right to pursue happiness. Finally, it critiques varying reactions to government power, advocating for a balanced respect for civil liberties amid the complexities of national security.

Gene Healy, Vice President at the Cato Institute and author of The Cult of the Presidency, dives into the original conception of the American presidency. He discusses the founders' concerns over national leadership and demagoguery, revealing how the role has shifted from resisting public pressure to catering to it. Healy also examines the evolution of presidential communication, from Jefferson's written messages to today's constant public address, and how this transformation has shaped public perception and the expectations of presidential power.

Susan Eisenhower, an expert on international security and granddaughter of President Dwight Eisenhower, engages in a thought-provoking discussion about the enduring effects of the military-industrial complex. She reflects on her grandfather's warning against unchecked military spending and its impact on democracy. The conversation also critiques the diminishing influence of veterans in Congress and the challenges leaders face in military decision-making. Eisenhower reminds us to align military funding with national priorities, reshaping our understanding of national security.

David Ritgers, a legal policy analyst at the Cato Institute and author of the paper advocating for the abolition of the Department of Homeland Security, shares compelling insights. He critiques the Department's structure post-9/11, highlighting inefficiencies and a misallocation of resources. Ritgers also reassesses the constitutional implications of privatizing aviation security, raising questions about its effectiveness in counterterrorism. Through his analysis, he challenges the necessity of DHS, suggesting it may hinder local governance.

Caleb O. Brown hosted the Cato Daily Podcast for nearly 18 years, producing well over 4000 episodes. He has gone on to head Kentucky’s Bluegrass Institute. This is one among the best episodes produced in his tenure, selected by the host and listeners.Don’t talk to the police, even if you want to help them solve a crime. James Duane says that’s the advice police and lawyers give their own children. He explains why in his new book, You Have the Right to Remain Innocent. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rand Paul, a Junior U.S. Senator from Kentucky, advocates for free markets and limited government. He discusses the troubling shift of trade authority from Congress to the White House, warning about the risks of executive overreach. Rand emphasizes the moral imperative of free trade and addresses how tariffs negatively impact consumers and industries. He proposes legislation to restore congressional control over trade policies while examining the implications of increasing U.S. debt and providing a bipartisan blueprint for fiscal responsibility.