Mike McShane, PhD, the National Director of Research for Ed Choice, discusses his new book, Hybrid Homeschooling, which argues for more flexible K-12 education. McShane’s research started prior to the COVID pandemic and related school closures and includes lessons learned from both data, case studies, and the impact of the shutdowns. McShane suggests a system that blends parental and school control, more educational choice, and fewer days in the physical classroom.

Sean Higgins from the Competitive Enterprise Institute compares two labor law proposals in Congress: the National Right To Work Act and the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act. Among those impacted if either of these bills becomes law are employers, labor unions, non-union workers, and freelance “gig” workers (including ride share drivers, photographers, and entertainers).

*image from CEI.org

National Taxpayers Union president Pete Sepp discusses the potential long-term effects of the massive COVID relief spending plan that is behind payments going to most US households now. He also critiques the idea of another multi-trillion dollar infrastructure spending plan with no specific mechanism to deal with the resulting debt. Sepp argues for limited support to some households and businesses while also saying spending should be reduced in other areas. He also explains why he hopes to see recent tax cuts kept in place.

Convention of States president Mark Meckler argues for an Article V Convention of States to be called in order to amend the United States Constitution. His effort has already been approved by 15 states, butting the campaign near the halfway point of what is needed. Meckler explains the process as outlined in the Constitution, the specific areas his group wants to see addressed with constitutional amendments, and answers objections raised by opponents.

* image from ConventionOfStates.com

Bankrate.com Senior Analyst Mark Hamrick assesses the recently passed stimulus spending plan. He discusses both the short term and long term economic effects but, more importantly, how the stimulus payments to households and additional subsidies of businesses could change current job conditions.

Religious freedom and LQBT rights are colliding in many aspects of the law, the courts, and in culture. World Magazine reporter Steve West discusses the conflicts and two approaches to public policy that seem to be competing. One would make exceptions for religious organizations to LGBT rights laws and policies. The other would not allow for religious objections or exemptions from local, state, or federal nondiscrimination standards, which could result in forcing some faith-based groups to violate their conscience.

Chris Arps from Project 21 (a national network of black conservatives) discusses the “For The People Act” and other efforts to reform elections in the US. Arps disagrees with the assertion that many liberal proposals are needed as part of making voting more accessible to minorities. He also pushes back against the argument that changes including universal mail in voting, automatic voter registration, and ballot harvesting are part of achieving racial equity.

Amity Shlaes from the Coolidge Foundation relates the content of The Autobiography of Calvin Coolidge, which she co-edited, to today’s political climate. The conversation includes discussion of changing mindsets of those in (or who pursue) political power, partisan dynamics, and a lack of clear messaging of party platforms in today’s politics.

Consumer Affairs’ Mark Huffman discusses recent increases in gas prices and explains why those prices are likely to continue to go up over the spring and summer. He also provides an update on the stimulus payments recently approved by Congress and President Biden. Huffman provides consumer advice regarding credit card costs and potential taxes as well.

Landmark Legal Foundation’s Mike O’Neill discusses the politics behind the decisions to keep schools partially or completely closed to in-person learning in many parts of the country. O’Neill focuses on the political power of teachers’ unions and their work to keep classes online or not happening at all.