Social Security is one of the most enduring institutions in American life. It’s not just a retirement program — it’s a promise. Workers contribute through payroll taxes, and in return,…
Category: Economy
Still in Recovery? How the U.S. Economy May Not Have Fully Escaped the Shadow of the 2004 Financial Crisis
While headlines often focus on the 2008 financial crisis, the economic turbulence of the early 2000s — including the dot-com bust, 9/11, and the 2001–2003 recession — left deep structural…
Rebuilding America’s Shipbuilding Might: Innovations, Reforms, and the Path Forward
After decades of decline, the U.S. shipbuilding industry is poised for a dramatic comeback. Once a global leader, America now builds less than 0.1% of the world’s ships. But with…
Why Taxing Wealth Can Destroy Jobs and Wages
When governments tax wealth—say, $100 billion over 10 years—they’re not just collecting money. They’re redirecting new savings away from the economy and into the purchase of assets being liquidated to…
Saving for Yourself, Building for Everyone: How Personal Savings Power Retirement and the Economy
In a world of rising costs and economic uncertainty, saving money might feel like a luxury. But history—and economics—tell a different story. Increasing your personal savings doesn’t just secure your…
From Boom to Backlash: How Union Overreach Undermined Its Own Gains
In the aftermath of World War II, the United States entered a period of unprecedented economic expansion. The 1950s marked a golden era for American labor, especially for unionized workers.…
From Tax Burden to Savings Behavior: Reform Lessons from the Top 20%
Since the mid-20th century, America’s wealthiest households—especially the top 20%—have paid an increasing share of total taxes relative to GDP. Simultaneously, private savings rates have fluctuated in response to economic…
Making Housing More Affordable: Smart Strategies for Cities and Communities
Housing affordability is a growing challenge across the U.S., but it’s not unsolvable. Cities, states, and developers have a wide range of tools to reduce costs, expand supply, and improve…
Why Cities Compete to Be Hubs—and How Richmond, VA Can Win
Cities that become hubs—whether for tech, finance, logistics, or culture—don’t just grow. They lead. They shape national trends, attract global investment, and become magnets for talent and innovation. But being…
Unlocking Opportunity: How Emerging Technologies Can Drive Jobs and Compensation in the U.S.
As artificial intelligence, automation, advanced manufacturing, and smart logistics reshape the global economy, the United States stands poised to lead—not just through innovation, but by using these tools to create…