Work & Jobs
In a free society, individuals are free to work, produce, consume and invest in any way they please.
In a free society, individuals are free to work, produce, consume and invest in any way they please.
Born over a hundred years ago, the federal individual income tax has grown from around 5% of federal revenues in 1915 to nearly 50% today. Moreover, a small subset of Americans pays a growing and disproportionate share of the income tax, with the top 1% of income earners paying 40% of the tax, and the top 50% paying 97%, Given the government’s reliance on the income tax, questions persist over whether it is the best mechanism for funding government services without excessively burdening taxpayers or stifling the economy.
There is an implied understanding between the students who take on debt to attend college, the federal government that provides loans and grants on behalf of the student to pursue a degree, and the college that receives payment to provide education. The belief is that investments in higher education will lead students to gainful employment in a field related to their college major or program.
Executive Order 14383, signed into law on February 6, 2025, establishes the first-ever America First Arms Transfer Strategy, signifying a fundamental shift in how the United States manages arms sales. For decades, arms sales were primarily seen as a tool for security assistance or diplomatic leverage.
As President Donald Trump prepares to deliver the 2026 State of the Union address on February 24, Americans will look to this annual moment for a clear accounting of the nation’s progress, its remaining challenges, and the path forward. For Californians, that reflection carries particular weight. The strength of the Union is not measured in speeches delivered in Washington, but in the safety of neighborhoods, the resilience of communities, and the economic security families experience every day. “Security” is the great unifying word.
Decision does not weaken case for strong America First trade policy.