Keeping the Republic

1. America faces a debt crisis that threatens its future

Today's clearest and most present danger is the Red Menace, and unlike past threats it is not an ocean away and we cannot hope to negotiate with it or deter it.

Unsustainable debt levels. The United States has accumulated an unprecedented level of national debt, with unfunded obligations for entitlement programs like Social Security and Medicare threatening future solvency. This "Red Menace" of red ink poses an existential threat to America's economic stability and global leadership position.

Consequences of inaction. If left unaddressed, the debt crisis could lead to:

• Higher interest rates and borrowing costs
• Reduced economic growth and living standards
• Diminished national security capabilities
• Loss of global influence and leadership

The debt problem stems from decades of overpromising and overspending by politicians, enabled by voters' short-term focus. Solving it will require difficult choices and shared sacrifice across society.

2. Government has become too large and intrusive

We have drifted in our politics into a place where often the worst enemies of pro-freedom change are its supposed adherents.

Overreaching bureaucracy. The federal government has expanded far beyond its proper constitutional limits, intruding into areas better left to individuals, families, communities, and the private sector. This growth has come at the expense of personal liberty and economic dynamism.

Cultural shift needed. Restoring limited government will require:

• Reining in regulatory overreach
• Eliminating unnecessary agencies and programs
• Decentralizing power back to states and localities
• Fostering a culture that values self-reliance over dependence

Americans must reclaim their status as citizens rather than subjects, pushing back against the notion that government "experts" should micromanage their lives and livelihoods.

3. Entitlement reform is necessary to avoid fiscal catastrophe

Of course, we Americans, like every human who has ever lived, have our obvious weaknesses. But without denying any of our shortcomings, I choose to believe we can and will fight our way out of today's dangerous corner of debt and economic stagnation.

Unsustainable promises. Social Security and Medicare, while well-intentioned, have made financial commitments far beyond what the nation can afford. Without reform, these programs will eventually crowd out all other government spending or require massive tax increases.

Potential reforms:

• Gradually raise eligibility ages
• Implement means-testing for benefits
• Transition to more sustainable funding models
• Encourage greater personal saving and responsibility

Reform efforts should protect current retirees and those nearing retirement while creating a more sustainable system for younger generations. This will require political courage but is essential for America's long-term fiscal health.

4. Economic growth is crucial for America's recovery

Absent a thunderous Republican win and mandate, probably on a scale beyond President Obama's 2008 victory, the choice is likely to come down to new action or no action.

Growth imperative. Robust economic growth is essential for job creation, rising living standards, and generating the tax revenue needed to address America's fiscal challenges. Without significantly faster growth, it will be nearly impossible to escape the debt trap.

Pro-growth policies:

• Lower and simplify tax rates
• Reduce regulatory burdens on businesses
• Invest in infrastructure and education
• Promote innovation and entrepreneurship
• Expand energy production and exports

Policymakers must prioritize growth-enhancing reforms over redistributionist policies that may feel good in the short term but ultimately stifle economic dynamism.

5. Tax reform could spur growth and simplify the system

There is nowhere to go but up.

Broken system. The current U.S. tax code is a complex mess of loopholes, deductions, and special-interest carve-outs that distorts economic decision-making and wastes billions of hours and dollars on compliance costs.

Reform principles:

• Broaden the base by eliminating most deductions and loopholes
• Lower marginal rates to improve incentives
• Simplify filing to reduce compliance costs
• Move towards a consumption-based system
• Consider a flat tax or negative income tax

A simpler, more efficient tax system could boost economic growth while potentially raising more revenue. It would also restore a sense of fairness and reduce opportunities for gaming the system.

6. Regulatory policy needs an overhaul to promote job creation

Major reductions in federal spending, like those we have effected in Indiana, are likely to cause far less discomfort to the general public than is commonly claimed.

Regulatory burden. Excessive and poorly designed regulations impose enormous costs on businesses, stifling job creation and economic growth. Many regulations provide little benefit while creating significant compliance burdens.

Reform approach:

• Implement regulatory budgets to limit total regulatory costs
• Require cost-benefit analysis for major new regulations
• Sunset existing regulations to force periodic review
• Streamline permitting processes for infrastructure projects
• Empower states to implement flexible regulatory approaches

Smart regulatory reform can protect public health and safety while unleashing economic potential and fostering innovation.

7. Energy policy should focus on developing domestic resources

Americans must reclaim their status as citizens rather than subjects, pushing back against the notion that government "experts" should micromanage their lives and livelihoods.

Energy abundance. The United States has vast energy resources that could be responsibly developed to boost economic growth, create jobs, and enhance energy security. Overly restrictive policies have hindered this potential.

Policy priorities:

• Expand domestic oil and natural gas production
• Streamline permitting for energy infrastructure
• Invest in clean coal and next-generation nuclear technologies
• Encourage renewable energy through market-based approaches
• Promote energy efficiency without heavy-handed mandates

A balanced "all-of-the-above" energy strategy can reduce costs for consumers and businesses while strengthening America's global position.

8. Education reform is critical for America's competitiveness

Education is a civil rights struggle for our time, and to succeed as a modern society we have to get this one right.

System failures. America's education system is failing to adequately prepare students for the challenges of the 21st-century global economy. This threatens future prosperity and social mobility.

Reform priorities:

• Expand school choice through charters and vouchers
• Implement merit pay and accountability for teachers
• Focus on STEM education and vocational training
• Encourage innovation and technology in the classroom
• Reform higher education financing to control costs

Improving educational outcomes is essential for maintaining America's economic competitiveness and ensuring equal opportunity for all citizens.

9. A return to personal responsibility and civic virtue is needed

Americans must reclaim their status as citizens rather than subjects, pushing back against the notion that government "experts" should micromanage their lives and livelihoods.

Cultural decline. The erosion of personal responsibility and civic virtue has contributed to many of America's social and economic challenges. A culture of dependency and entitlement threatens the foundations of a free society.

Revitalizing citizenship:

• Encourage self-reliance and community involvement
• Promote volunteerism and civil society organizations
• Teach civics and American history in schools
• Reform welfare to emphasize work and independence
• Celebrate success and entrepreneurship

Restoring a culture of personal responsibility and civic engagement is crucial for maintaining a vibrant democracy and prosperous economy.

10. Political discourse must become more civil and substantive

Please note that a growth-friendly tax system along the lines just mentioned means one that collects more than today's nightmare would produce.

Toxic politics. The current state of political discourse, characterized by personal attacks and partisan rancor, makes it difficult to address serious policy challenges. This alienates citizens and undermines faith in democratic institutions.

Improving dialogue:

• Focus on ideas and solutions rather than personal attacks
• Engage in respectful debate with those who disagree
• Seek common ground on areas of agreement
• Promote media literacy and critical thinking
• Encourage participation in local politics and civic organizations

A more civil and substantive political discourse is essential for rebuilding trust in government and addressing America's long-term challenges.

11. Bold leadership is required to implement necessary changes

History's assignment to this generation of freedom fighters is in one way even more profound than the tests of our proud past.

Leadership vacuum. Implementing the reforms needed to address America's fiscal and economic challenges will require bold, principled leadership. Too often, politicians have opted for short-term popularity over long-term responsibility.

Leadership imperatives:

• Clearly communicate the scale of challenges facing the nation
• Build coalitions to support necessary reforms
• Be willing to make difficult and unpopular decisions
• Lead by example in promoting fiscal responsibility
• Inspire citizens to embrace shared sacrifice for the common good

America's future depends on leaders who are willing to tell hard truths and make tough choices, even at the risk of their own political careers.

Last updated: August 8, 2024