Jonathan Williams joins the show to discuss Louisiana’s impressive leap in the Rich States, Poor States rankings—jumping 13 spots to #18, the largest upward move of any state in the 2025 edition. He attributes this success to major policy reforms, particularly the adoption of a 3% flat income tax, which positions Louisiana more competitively within the Southeast. Williams highlights the region’s fierce competition not only in college football but also in economic policy, noting that states like Texas, Florida, and Tennessee have long benefited from zero personal income tax.
Another key factor in Louisiana’s rise is the expansion of school choice through the Gator Plan, which, while not yet universal, marks a significant step toward educational freedom. Williams emphasizes that economic and educational freedom are powerful drivers of migration and investment, citing historical comparisons between Louisiana and Florida to illustrate how tax policy influences population and revenue growth.
He also discusses the importance of trimming government waste, particularly in Medicaid, where Louisiana has made strides in reducing fraud and duplicative payments. Williams advocates for policies that restrain government growth relative to the private sector, referencing Colorado’s Taxpayer Bill of Rights as a model for sustainable fiscal policy.
Despite the progress, Williams warns that continued effort and leadership are essential. Standing still could mean falling behind, especially as neighboring states like Mississippi and Oklahoma move to phase out income taxes. He concludes by stressing the need for constitutional reforms and spending caps to maintain momentum, and praises Louisiana’s recent achievements as a sign that the state is on the right track—though deeper, more difficult reforms lie ahead.
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