In this episode, Andrew Langer sits down with economist and American Action Forum President Doug Holtz-Eakin for a wide-ranging conversation on recent economic policy developments and their potential consequences. Holtz-Eakin expresses skepticism over the Biden Administration’s latest trade and tariff policies—what some dubbed “Liberation Day”—arguing they amount to a $500–$600 billion tax increase with damaging implications for economic growth, inflation, and America’s farming sector.

The discussion pivots to regulatory policy, highlighting the staggering $1.8 trillion in regulatory costs added under President Biden, contrasted with the deregulatory success of the first Trump administration. Holtz-Eakin cautions against the current sequencing of economic policy—leading with tariffs instead of first tackling tax and regulatory reform—and emphasizes the importance of revisiting trade agreements to address unfair barriers facing American exporters, especially farmers.

They also unpack recent moves to reduce the federal workforce. Holtz-Eakin critiques past approaches but supports the current plan empowering agency heads to make strategic, legally compliant cuts. He debunks myths about federal employment levels, noting they remain close to Reagan-era numbers, and argues that downsizing can be done responsibly—citing the Clinton-era example of 400,000 job reductions without major disruption.

This is a must-listen for anyone interested in economic strategy, regulatory reform, and the inner workings of federal governance.

With Andrew filling in for a nationally-syndicated radio show and Jerry joining him for a couple of segments, they have time for an impromptu episode!

They dive into the media-driven narrative surrounding mental health, political hysteria, and Donald Trump. Kicking off with Andrew’s recent appearance on Square Off, the duo deconstructs how legacy media’s alarmism is fueling anxiety and depression across America—not Trump himself.

They unpack the latest legal developments in the case of an illegal immigrant living in Maryland being deported to El Salvidor, reigniting the debate over immigration, due process, and the constitutional powers of government. Andrew recounts a spirited online exchange and uses it to explain why understanding the limits of government authority is more essential than ever.

Jerry joins the conversation to celebrate his birthday and to share thoughts on Trump’s strategic push to force judicial clarity on executive power, trade, and immigration. Together, they skewer media hyperbole (with a detour into the “Wheel of Trump” theory), dismantle Elizabeth Warren’s conspiracy claims on tariffs, and reflect on why today’s America is increasingly ill-equipped to handle crisis.

In this lively episode, Andrew and Jerry navigate the turbulent waters of America's trade policy and economic rhetoric. With markets fluctuating and political discourse at fever pitch, they dive into the confusion surrounding tariffs, trade wars, and the misinformation plaguing both Wall Street and Main Street. Jerry, editor at Real Clear Policy and Real Clear Health, reveals his trusted sources for cutting through political noise, emphasizing the importance of independent voices emerging on platforms like Substack.

They tackle the contentious legacy of Reagan-era trade policies, unravel the complexity behind Trump's current economic moves, and discuss why free trade doesn't always mean fair trade—especially when dealing with geopolitical rivals like China. Andrew shares insights on how regulatory costs play a crucial yet overlooked role in economic health, arguing that tariffs can't be viewed in isolation.

Beyond economics, Andrew and Jerry scrutinize broader political and strategic issues including proxy voting controversies in Congress, internal Republican power struggles, and why communication failures remain a stumbling block for the Trump administration. With sharp analysis and spirited debate, Episode 94 delivers clarity amidst the chaos.

Tune in and get equipped to separate economic reality from political theater.