Pegasus Podcast

In many ways, every state failed in some fashion when it came to the pandemic. Lacking complete information, attempts to slow the spread in two weeks, became months. Evidence to keep schools closed was sparse, yet they remained closed. Even the most severe lockdown states saw some of the worst death counts in the world. However, out of all the states, Florida has been held up as the best example of a state that got it right. Were they perfect? Of course not. But on today's podcast, Sal Nuzzo takes us through what other states can learn from Florida today and in the future.

Last week the Kentucky Supreme Court heard oral arguments on two cases regarding the Governor's emergency powers. Since the passing of Senate Bill 1, things have certainly changed in Kentucky. Most importantly, the law. So the big question on the table now is, does Kentucky's Governor have to follow new laws just like everyone else?

Despite the fact that every ad played in Louisville during Derby time features a glass of whiskey and a cigar, there are no establishments in our city where you can enjoy both at the same time. Louisville's "Smoke Free Ordinance", aimed at keeping workers safe from second hand smoke, has been too broadly applied, essentially prohibiting safe cigar bars. As our city looks to bounce back post-COVID, one of the simplest ways we could spur economic growth and tourism is by removing this ban. On today's podcast, Glynn Loope of the Premium Cigar Association joins us talk about the benefits that could come to Louisville if reform happens.

In the last month as stores, restaurants, malls and more returned to full capacity, they all seemed short-staffed. After facing their worst year ever, restaurants across the country were forced to stay limited in their capacity when they couldn't hire enough people. It is a problem plaguing every industry and every state. The most obvious problem is the continued generous unemployment benefits being handed out in states like Kentucky. For many workers, they are making MORE on unemployment than they did working. So what is the solution? On today's podcast, Bryan Sunder of FGA talks with us about what states can do in the short term to get people back to work, and what solutions are needed long term to return our economy to strong position.

Ever since Lyndon Johnson declared the "War on Poverty", the federal and state governments have been trying to bring prosperity to the Appalachia region. Decades later, and millions of dollars spent, the region remains as poor, if not poorer, then ever. So why the failures? In today's podcast, Abigail Hall, an Associate Professor of Economics at Bellarmine University, takes us through her research on the failures of this state-led development, and how we can stop repeating the mistakes.

No More Masks, No Gas, and No Ban on Cigar Bars by Pegasus Institute

The FDA, along with the anti-tobacco lobby, have once again started to push for a ban on menthol flavored cigarettes and flavored small cigars. The anti-tobacco crowd has used every excuse under the sun to push the ban, all while avoiding the reality of the policy. It will lead to over-policing of minority communities, while doing nothing to curb adult or youth smoking rates. On today's podcast, Tim Andrews, the Director of Consumer Issues for Americans for Tax Reform, joins us to discuss the problems with this ban, and the many unintended consequences that come with it.

Second Chances and New Places by Pegasus Institute

Student loan debt cancellation is all the rage in Washington, DC nowadays. Democrats, ignoring the massive implications of the policy, seem to be bickering more on whether the proposal should be $10,000, $20,000 or more. The reality of the policy is much more bleak. On today's podcast, Dr. Antony Davies joins us to break down the problems and limitations of student loan debt cancellation.

Steve Twist is a legend in the crime victims' rights movement. No, really. In 2020, Steve became the second person EVER to receive the Legends Award from the DOJ for his work on victims' rights. The only other person to ever receive that award is Ed Meese.

The origins of the victims' rights movement have strong ties to Steve and his mentors and partners. They started with success in Arizona, then into states like California, and played critical roles in a national movement. On today's podcast Steve talks us through the beginning of the movement, its necessity, and what is still left to do.