The U.S. today is in its best shape ever. Americans enjoy low flat(ish) tax rates, an economy open to foreign trade, and wealth unprecedented in human history. To continue to enjoy this prosperity, it is important to understand why the 1980s and beyond have been so much better.
Property Rights
Housing Is Too Expensive. Blame Your Local Tree Ordinance.
Matthew Bernard wanted to build a home. He bought a small lot in Oakland, California, and began clearing several diseased and fallen trees that the local fire department had identified as hazards. The result was a $915,000 “mitigation fee” from the city of Oakland—nearly five times the value of the lot itself. Under Oakland’s tree ordinance,...
August 27, 2026