Econjack
I’d be interested in hearing why you don’t consider Obama a free trader Is he pushing for tariffs? I’d also be very interested in hearing why you see this an incorrect mix of micro and macro. Be as specific as you can in terms of theory. If you did not already see “The Unraveling of Economics”, it is the detailed analysis. I hope to post the link tomorrow to see what falls out. I’m definitely looking for critique to help simplify and clarify my model. thank you
Free trade goes way beyond tariffs and quotas. Why do you think Obozo is fighting the Keystone pipeline? You don’t think reduced energy costs would make us more competitive in world markets? There are hundreds of small steps he could have taken to encourage free trade but I am unaware of any of them. Has he done anything to give businesses a reason to become more competitive in world markets? His tax policies are punitive on business and hinder US producers in world markets. Has he done anything to promote trade with other countries?
He has done nothing that would stimulate domestic production. At a time when we are clearly in a Keynesian Liquidity Trap, making monetary policy totally ineffective, his solution is quantitative easing and increased spending via transfer payments. His prescription out of a recession is free cell phones for the poor. Nothing about investing in human capital or any other type of capital. His increased spending was geared to buying votes, not ramping up real output to put in world markets.What is needed are fiscal measures and he comes up with class warfare and advocates raising taxes on the rich. When the top 10% of income earners foot 71% of the tax bill, how can you say with a straight face that the rich don’t pay their fair share? He fails to see that a rising tide lifts all boats. How many of you were hired by a poor person?
Ineffective monetary policy, punitive fiscal policy, and a naive and lackluster push for increased world trade tells me he is economically incompetent and has done nothing to promote free trade.
Obama is not a free trader, the last thing he wants is any kind of freedom at all.