Pitchfork Economics with Nick Hanauer

In this enlightening discussion, economist Mark Paul, an assistant professor at Rutgers University and author of "The Ends of Freedom," advocates for an Economic Bill of Rights. He challenges the notion of trickle-down economics, arguing that true freedom includes access to essentials like housing, healthcare, and education. Paul emphasizes the need to rethink freedom, shifting from a narrow view to one that guarantees basic rights for all. He draws inspiration from FDR's vision, calling for policies that support a fairer economy for everyone.

Nidhi Hegde, Executive Director of the American Economic Liberties Project, shares insights on the need for an anti-monopoly agenda to combat economic inequality. Harry Holzer, a labor market economist from Georgetown, delves into the complexities of post-COVID inflation and its implications on the economy. Mary Beth Maxwell emphasizes the importance of centering care in policy, advocating for a robust care agenda. The guests explore strategies for dismantling corporate power and empowering communities for a more inclusive economic future.

For decades, unions were more than just labor organizations—they were community anchors that shaped working-class identity and political loyalty. But what happens when an entire generation loses its economic and social foundation? The Rust Belt’s working-class voters were once a Democratic stronghold, but that’s no longer the case. Lainey Newman, co-author of Rust Belt Union Blues, joins Paul  and Goldy this week to explain how the erosion of union power helped shift working-class voters away from Democrats, and why economic fixes alone won’t be enough to win them back.Lainey Newman is an author and J.D. candidate at Harvard Law School. She is a graduate of Harvard College and a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.Social Media:@laineynewman.bsky.sociallaineynewman@LaineyNewmanFurther reading: Rust Belt Union Blues: Why Working-Class Voters Are Turning Away from the Democratic PartyWebsite: http://pitchforkeconomics.comInstagram: @pitchforkeconomicsThreads: pitchforkeconomicsBluesky: @pitchforkeconomics.bsky.socialTwitter: @PitchforkEcon, @NickHanauer, @civicactionYouTube: @pitchforkeconomicsLinkedIn: Pitchfork EconomicsSubstack: The Pitch

Les Leopold, a labor educator and author, reveals the harsh realities of corporate layoffs driven by Wall Street in a quest for profits. He discusses how stock buybacks and deregulation have shifted layoffs from signs of failure to strategic tools, alienating workers and exacerbating inequality. Leopold highlights the economic and social crises in areas like Mingo County, advocating for grassroots movements and innovative policies to restore worker rights. The conversation aims to empower the working class against corporate greed and inspire systemic change.

David Deming, a Harvard economist and author, sheds light on the concentrated power held by elite universities in shaping economic narratives. He argues that this 'Big Econ' monopolizes perspectives, stifling competition and innovation. The discussion critiques traditional economic theories, particularly regarding income inequality and minimum wage policies. Deming emphasizes the need for diverse voices in economics to address real-world challenges and promote effective societal change. His insights call for a reevaluation of how economics is taught and practiced.

Anne Kim, a writer and public policy expert, delves into the disturbing reality of how major corporations exploit anti-poverty programs to boost profits rather than alleviate suffering. She highlights the role of tax prep companies and Medicaid contractors in this scheme. The discussion unveils the unethical practices behind privatization, revealing how these systems prioritize shareholder profits over essential services for the impoverished. Kim also shares potential reforms to increase transparency and enhance support for low-income individuals, advocating for a government focused on public welfare.

Senator Chris Murphy, the junior U.S. Senator from Connecticut, joins for an insightful discussion on the failures of neoliberalism and the future of the Democratic Party. He critiques how decades of free trade and deregulation have led to stagnating wages and soaring inequality. Murphy highlights Biden's shift toward industrial policy as a positive change and argues for unrigging the economic system. He emphasizes a need for a new narrative focused on community empowerment rather than merely handing out subsidies.

In this engaging discussion, journalist Michael Hobbes highlights the alarming rise of white-collar crime and the concept of 'elite deviance.' He reveals how wealthy individuals often evade consequences for crimes that cause significant social harm, illustrating a stark contrast in accountability compared to minor offenders. Hobbes delves into the erosion of regulatory frameworks and the illusion of accountability, critiquing the current legal systems that favor the powerful. He advocates for better funding of agencies to tackle these disparities and achieve true justice.

Yoni Appelbaum, a deputy executive editor of The Atlantic and author of "Stuck," dives into America's evolving landscape of opportunity. He discusses how zoning laws and economic policies have locked many into communities, preventing upward mobility. The episode highlights the historical context behind rising housing costs and their impacts on family relocation. Appelbaum emphasizes the need for housing reforms to restore accessibility and argues that mobility is essential for fostering prosperity, especially for immigrant families.

With billionaires pouring unprecedented sums of money into politics, corporate interests shaping policy, and the revelation that Trump has appointed a record 13 billionaires to top administration roles in the wealthiest cabinet in American history, it's clear how much sway the ultra-wealthy hold over our democracy. So, we’re re-airing our 2021 conversation with Thom Hartmann, which offers timely insights into how the ultra-wealthy consolidate power, and how concentrated wealth undermines economic fairness and democratic governance.Thom Hartmann is a New York Times bestselling author and America’s #1 progressive talk show host for over a decade. This episode originally aired on February 2, 2021.Social Media:Bluesky @hartmannreport.comTwitter @Thom_HartmannFurther reading: The Hidden History of American OligarchyWebsite: http://pitchforkeconomics.comInstagram: @pitchforkeconomicsThreads: pitchforkeconomicsBluesky: @pitchforkeconomics.bsky.socialTwitter: @PitchforkEcon, @NickHanauer, @civicactionYouTube: @pitchforkeconomicsLinkedIn: Pitchfork EconomicsSubstack: The Pitch