Economy & Policy
Economy / Economy & Policy / Government / Politics / Politics / Politics & Power / Power

Sen. Thom Tillis Draws a Line: No Fed Nominee Until DOJ Resolves Powell Probe — Even Under Trump

- by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) is blocking any Federal Reserve chair nominee until the Justice Department concludes its investigation of former Chair Jerome Powell. This standoff illustrates a power struggle between institutional conservatives and the Trump administration, raising concerns about accountability, Senate independence, and the future legitimacy of the Federal Reserve amidst economic uncertainty.

Sen. Thom Tillis Draws a Line: No Fed Nominee Until DOJ Resolves Powell Probe — Even Under Trump Read More
Economy / Economy & Policy / Government

Congress Discovers the Laffer Curve—About 50 Years Late

- by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

A recent congressional analysis has reignited discussion on the Laffer Curve, indicating that tax rates above 50-55 percent may diminish total revenue and inhibit economic growth. This challenges longstanding Democratic views on taxing the wealthy, emphasizing that broader tax bases and economic incentives are crucial for effective revenue generation.

Congress Discovers the Laffer Curve—About 50 Years Late Read More
Economy / Economy & Policy / Energy / Energy / Government / Government

Court Allows Alaska Energy Exploration to Proceed — A Win for Energy Reality Over Regulatory Paralysis

- by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

A federal court ruling has advanced energy exploration in Alaska, indicating a shift in U.S. energy policy from regulatory gridlock to pragmatism. The court upheld federal approvals, rejecting lawsuits that delay development without proven environmental harm. This decision highlights the importance of domestic energy independence and the balance between environmental protection and development.

Court Allows Alaska Energy Exploration to Proceed — A Win for Energy Reality Over Regulatory Paralysis Read More
Economy / Economy & Policy / Government

SBA Suspends 1,000 8(a) Firms for Failing to Submit Required Data

- by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

The Small Business Administration has suspended approximately 1,000 firms from its 8(a) Business Development Program due to non-compliance with mandatory ownership and control data submission. This enforcement action aims to ensure the program’s integrity and prevent fraud, signaling a commitment to accountability and transparency in federal contracting for small businesses.

SBA Suspends 1,000 8(a) Firms for Failing to Submit Required Data Read More
Domestic Policy / Economy / Economy & Policy / Government / Government / Justice & Governance / Law and Order / Law Enforcement / Laws

$100 Million Fraud Case Highlights Scale—and Limits—of White-Collar Accountability

- by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

A La Jolla couple faces charges in a federal fraud case allegedly involving over $100 million in losses. Prosecutors claim they misled investors with false promises, diverting funds for personal gain. This case highlights the significant impact of white-collar crime on everyday individuals and emphasizes the need for effective enforcement of existing laws.

$100 Million Fraud Case Highlights Scale—and Limits—of White-Collar Accountability Read More
Border Security / Congress / Congress / Economy / Economy & Policy / Government / National Security / Politics / Politics / Politics & Power / Power / Security

House Passes DHS Funding Bill as ICE Protests Collide With Shutdown Deadline

- by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

The U.S. House approved $64 billion in funding for the Department of Homeland Security by a narrow vote amid deep partisan divides over immigration policies, particularly concerning ICE. While almost all Republicans supported the bill, Democratic opposition centered on concerns about enforcement tactics. The bill now moves to the Senate for further scrutiny.

House Passes DHS Funding Bill as ICE Protests Collide With Shutdown Deadline Read More
Economy & Policy / Federal Oversight / Government / Government / Housing & Cost of Living

Trump Takes Aim at Wall Street to Make Homeownership Affordable Again

- by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

President Trump says “people live in homes, not corporations” as he moves to block large institutional investors from buying single-family houses. Supporters see a populist push to restore the American Dream of homeownership, while critics question whether the move can meaningfully fix a deeper housing supply crisis.

Trump Takes Aim at Wall Street to Make Homeownership Affordable Again Read More