Has economics fallen to politics? Court economists like Paul Krugman–we might call them "regime economists"–represent a profession in big trouble. Jeff and Bob discuss.

Bob is joined by author George Ford Smith for a detailed examination into the life and legacy of Thomas Paine. They discuss how Paine’s writings, especially Common Sense and the American Crisis essays, mustered colonial support for independence and even influenced the outcome of the Revolutionary War. Smith explains Paine's life, from early setbacks and struggles in England to becoming a pivotal figure in America’s founding, and why his views ultimately sidelined his historical reputation.

• George's Mises Wire Article, "The Failure to Stop Thomas Paine": Mises.org/HAP505a
• George's Mises Wire Article, "Thomas Paine, Liberty's Hated Torchbearer": Mises.org/HAP505b

The Mises Institute is giving away 100,000 copies of Murray Rothbard’s, What Has Government Done to Our Money? Get your free copy at Mises.org/HAPodFree

Bob hosts economist Daniel Lacalle to analyze the controversial Big Beautiful Bill. Daniel explains why, despite its imperfections, the bill represents a vital first step toward curbing government spending and protecting private-sector prosperity from excessive state intervention.

• Daniel's Article, "The Big Beautiful Bill Is Much Better Than You Think": Mises.org/HAP504a
• Thomas Massie's X Exchange on the Hidden Costs of the BBB: Mises.org/HAP504b
• Bob's Recent Blog Post on the BBB: Mises.org/HAP504c

The Mises Institute is giving away 100,000 copies of Murray Rothbard’s, What Has Government Done to Our Money? Get your free copy at Mises.org/HAPodFree