287. Presidential Policy Debate | Weekly Prosperity Pulse 1

Here's my new Friday newsletter with key insights on pressing issues.

Welcome to the second edition of what I hope becomes a valued weekly tradition for you. Whether you’re catching up with me via this newsletter, my Let People Prosper Show, or any of the other platforms (like Apple and Spotify). I’m glad you’re here! If you haven’t already, be sure to become a paid subscriber for exclusive content and deeper policy insights.

I had a great time this week participating in a panel with Ed Timmons and Emily Hamilton of

The Mercatus Center

at an IHS event in Washington, D.C. The discussion revolved around turning academic research into actionable policy—a key step for advancing sound economic principles.

Let’s dive into this week’s updates.

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Highlights

It’s been a busy week with a testimony, several new articles, and multiple media appearances. Here's a quick roundup:

• Spending Less Discussion with Bob Murphy on his podcast.

• The Ginn Economic Brief: Texas Economic Situation – August 2024

  Texas' economic leadership, a comparative analysis with other states, and a path forward.

• The Hidden Cost of Tariffs: Louisiana’s Economic Challenges in a Global Economy

  Louisiana’s economy, deeply reliant on global trade, faces unique challenges under the weight of federal tariffs. As recent protectionist policies continue to gain traction, Louisiana finds itself vulnerable to the unintended consequences of these measures, which often do more harm than good. While these tariffs are marketed to protect American industries, they act as a hidden tax that burdens consumers and producers, ultimately stifling economic growth and prosperity.

• Sedgwick County sales tax proposal would simply the tax shift burden and likely increase it

  Kansas Policy Institute economist Dr. Vance Ginn said that this is merely shifting money around, not actually reducing any taxes. “You might look at it as raising a tax to eliminate a tax,” Ginn said. “That might be a whole different, but that’s not what they’re trying to do — and in fact — they’re not trying to lower or even restrain government spending, which is the main driver of why taxes are so high. So this is just a bad idea overall unless there’s going to be some spending restraint. There’s no other way to reduce taxes or the burden of taxes on Kansans.”

• Kansas Should Reject Medicaid Expansion

  Should Kansas pass Medicaid expansion? That is the question. 

  • Proponents argue that expansion will bring more Kansans under healthcare coverage and boost the state’s economy. However, a closer examination reveals a troubling picture. Medicaid expansion would saddle Kansas with unsustainable costs, strain the healthcare system, and hinder future economic growth—all without significantly improving healthcare quality.

• Vance Ginn Testimony Texas Senate Finance Committee on Eliminating Property Taxes

• Harris’s Proposed Increase in Capital Gains, Corporate Tax Rates Would Slow Economy, Hurt Investment

  Check out my interview on NTD News.

Let People Prosper Show

This week’s Let People Prosper Show features deep discussions on topics ranging from defense policy to empowering women in the workforce:

• Episode 113 (Yesterday):
  I interviewed Stacy Blakeley, CEO of The Policy Circle. We had a fantastic discussion about her work advancing economic freedom for women in their careers and how this helps foster economic growth and opportunities for men. Her leadership at The Policy Circle is helping redefine how women engage with economic and policy issues.

• Episode 114 (Next Thursday):
  Don’t miss next week’s episode with John Hendrickson as we discuss the importance of the U.S. Constitution, debate over trade protectionism, outline the pro-growth policies in Iowa, and consider the pros and cons of the “New Right.” He is the Policy Director for Iowans for Tax Relief Foundation.

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Quote of the Week

Friedman gives us a key insight on how to deal with rational politicians who want to win reelection.

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Bible Verse of the Week

This verse reminds us to love one another no matter our differences.

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In Conclusion

Thanks for joining me on this journey to promote economic freedom and prosperity. I hope this Weekly Prosperity Pulse keeps you informed, inspired, and ready for the week ahead. If you aren’t already a paid subscriber, now’s a great time to join for exclusive content and deeper dives below the paywall. And be sure to share this newsletter with your family and friends.

See you next Friday!