AEI's Michael Strain analyzes the mistakes left and right make about middle class stagnation, quality of life, and other matters. Plus, what is risked when Trump/Musk attack foundational institutions.

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Michael Strain’s Book — The American Dream Is Not Dead: (But Populism Could Kill It)

Elizabeth Warren & Bill de Blasio – Critique of middle-class decline.

Josh Hawley – Comment on wage stagnation.

David Autor's "China Shock" Paper – Study on trade-induced job losses.

Robert Bork’s Antitrust Theories – Influence on U.S. competition policy.

Smoot-Hawley Tariffs – Historical reference to the consequences of trade protectionism.

Occupy Wall Street & Tea Party Movements – Examples of populist political reactions.

Federal Job Training Programs – Discussion on their past inefficacy and recent improvements.