57. Fearmongering Returns: Freedom Trumps Fear
In this newsletter, I outline the top 10 things in states, 10 things in the U.S., and 4 things with Covid-19. You don't want to miss how freedom trumps fear.
Hello Friend,
Thank you for reading the latest Let People Prosper newsletter. We believe that an inclusive institutional framework with individual liberty, strong families, robust civil society, competitive capitalism, and a constitutional republic best supports abundant opportunities to relieve poverty and let people prosper. This prosperity isn’t just material but spiritual, psychological, etc. that satisfies human desires. Given this understanding and my experience and research as a free-market economist, I provide trusted views on economies and policies across America, especially Texas where I reside, and the COVID-19 situation. Let’s go!
Personal take: Another fantastic week with the family. And another week closer to our family receiving our precious baby girl. We are busy at work preparing to release our latest priorities for Texans for the 2023 legislative session in Texas, which will help influence what happens in other states. This is always an extraordinary time as I work with some of the most brilliant people that I’ve ever met. It makes me excited about the future and what prosperity will be supported now and for generations to come.
I’m hosting the second Conservative Budget workshop on Teams on Friday, January 14, from 12-1 pm CT. Ping me if you’d like to join.
Hot take: Notice shortages of over-the-counter Covid-19 tests? Here’s a reason.
TEXAS & OTHER STATES ECONOMIES AND POLICIES
Kansas Policy Institute releases their Responsible Kansas Budget! More states will be releasing theirs soon.
I'm quoted in Axios Austin about the high costs of the governments raising their mandated minimum wage, which 21 states & 35 cities+counties raised on Jan 1, 2022. Free enterprise works best to help lower-wage workers & keep costs lower, not wage controls.
U.S. jobs report was weak, but which states are leading…find out next week.
Need education freedom now…students, parents, teachers, and taxpayers deserve it.
U.S. Treasury released the final rule for ARPA funds to states…how does it influence your state?
Higher interest rates from less money creation are on the way…good!
U.S. economy is likely to hit some major speed bumps in 2022. (Watch)
Stop this nonsensical argument that price controls are good and that monopolists are everywhere. Mary Vought gets it correct.
Here are good ideas for what to do with tax policy by the Tax Foundation
U.S. ECONOMY AND POLICIES
Biden’s policies contributed to less job creation in 2021 than CBO projected.
We need substantial reform with safety net programs that temporarily help people get back on their feet toward self-sufficiency rather than dependency.
Buying a new house? This is how you could be influenced and contributing factor to why housing prices are skyrocketing, besides the Fed.
Let’s hope Senator Manchin stays strong.
Inflation, inflation, inflation…
Why not cut costs?
These ignorant ramblings are getting old.
It’s important to put things in context.
Good piece putting things into perspective.
Debt is robbing our prosperity today and tomorrow.
COVID-19 SITUATION
Latest info: TX DSHS Covid-related data here. The first 2 major waves had restrictions in place. Gov. Greg Abbott lifted state restrictions on Mar. 10, 2021, and blocked local restrictions on May 21, 2021. No need for government-mandated masks, vaccines, or shutdowns. Wave #4 (2021 Winter 2 Wave) recently started with rising cases but hospitalizations and fatalities remain subdued so far. More here.
Politicians are resorting to fearmongering again…
Will the real freedom fighters please stand up?
Check out these figures…Facts over Fear.
Children are at little risk to Covid-19.
Closing Thoughts
Must follow the laws of economics or be doomed to repeat mistakes.
My prayers this week are focused on this Bible verse.
Thank you for reading and sharing this newsletter. I pray that we continue to fulfill our God-given purpose and flourish. Many blessings to you and yours!
Vance Ginn, Ph.D. | www.vanceginn.com | #LetPeopleProsper