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This past Saturday at CPAC, I had the privilege of hosting a thought-provoking panel discussion on "Bidenomics and Regulation," which brought together a distinguished group of experts to dissect the intricacies and implications of the current administration's economic and regulatory policies. The panel featured Doug Collins, former member of Congress and host of the Doug Collins Podcast; Brendan Carr, Commissioner of the Federal Communications Commission; Stephen Moore, co-founder of the Committee to Unleash Prosperity and former senior economics advisor to President Trump A Critical Examination of Bidenomics The discussion opened with an exploration of the Biden administration's regulatory approach, particularly its "whole of government" strategy. This method has seen regulatory actions not just from the expected agencies but across the breadth of government, impacting sectors from healthcare to technology. Panelists raised concerns about the implications of such a wide-reaching approach to regulation. Doug Collins offered a pointed critique, stating, "When you get into the issue of march in and that sounds like they're doing some kind of military thing. This isn't march in. What this is literally is marching in to where they have people who have taken government funds to find new and innovative solutions across the spectrum of products in which they come to our markets. What they're wanting to do, though, is if you've taken government money, the government wants to come in and then take your patent, take your intellectual property, and then they can do whatever they want to with it. This will send us back to pre-1980 Ronald Reagan. How many of you want to take a trip back to Jimmy Carter days? Is there anybody in the place longing for that? No, nobody wants to." This sentiment underscored the panel's apprehension about the administration's direction, emphasizing the potential for overreach and the stifling of entrepreneurial spirit. Digital Equity, Net Neutrality, and Free Speech Brendan Carr's insights brought the conversation to the digital realm, focusing on issues of digital equity, net neutrality, and the broader implications for free speech and censorship. Carr highlighted recent initiatives by the Biden administration that seemed to prioritize control over digital spaces, expressing concerns over attempts to regulate the internet under the guise of net neutrality, which could have chilling effects on free speech and innovation. He further criticized the administration's policies, noting: "Just this week at the FCC, we voted to require all broadcasters to publicly post race and gender scorecard that lists the demographics of all their employees. Why? Because activist organizations want to use that information to pressure businesses into hiring people, or not, based on their race and their gender. So what's going on here? These aren't isolated pinpricks. It goes back to a lot of causes, but one main one. This extreme version of identity politics and everything else is downstream. Once you divide America into oppressor groups and oppressed, then of course we can take the rights away from the oppressor groups. Of course, they don't need the First Amendment. But that's just the beginning. Free speech is the counterweight to government control. And there's a straight line from the ballot box to the soapbox. As soon as they say we don't trust you with what to say, they move very quickly into we don't trust you in terms of who you get to vote for." Economic Consequences and Regulatory Costs Stephen Moore shifted the dialogue to the macroeconomic effects of regulatory policies, discussing how the administration's approach could influence the broader economy. Moore emphasized the costs associated with regulatory compliance, arguing, "you asked about the impact of Biden's regulations. So just to put it in terms that people can understand, under Barack Obama, who was the second worst president in the last 50 years, Joe Biden is the worst president of the last 50 years. Under Obama, the average family saw their cost rise by $5,000 per family because of regulation. Under Donald Trump - are you ready for this? - the average regulatory cost per family fell by $3,000 per family. And under Biden, it's been raised by another $6,000. So regulation is an attack on the American economy." He warned of the long-term implications warning that the US is at a tipping point where the cumulative burden of regulation threatens to undermine the very foundations of our free-market economy, eroding the principles of competition and entrepreneurship that have driven American prosperity. A Unified Call for Action Throughout the panel, a common theme emerged: a call for a return to policies that promote free enterprise, safeguard individual rights, and encourage innovation without excessive government intervention. The experts expressed a shared concern that the current trajectory of Bidenomics and regulatory expansion presents significant challenges that demand immediate attention from policymakers, industry leaders, and the public. In closing, the panelists underscored the importance of engaging in informed debate and advocacy to counter the trends they identified. This is not just about policy disagreements. It's about the fundamental principles that govern our society. We must be vigilant in defending the freedoms that define us. Looking Ahead The CPAC panel on Bidenomics and Regulation offered a crucial examination of the current administration's economic and regulatory strategies, highlighting concerns about overreach, the impact on innovation and free speech, and the potential for adverse economic consequences. The insights shared by the panelists serve as a call to action for all who value the principles of freedom and enterprise. As we move forward, it is imperative that we continue the conversation, critically assessing the implications of governmental policies and advocating for a regulatory environment that fosters growth, innovation, and freedom. Only through informed debate and concerted action can we ensure that our economic and regulatory policies reflect the values that have made the United States a beacon of prosperity and liberty. The panel at CPAC has laid the groundwork for ongoing discussions about the direction of our economy and regulatory framework. By drawing on the expertise and insights of leaders like Doug Collins, Brendan Carr, and Stephen Moore, we can better understand the challenges ahead and work towards solutions that preserve the principles of freedom and prosperity for future generations.

The theme of this year's CPAC national conference was "Where Globalism Goes to Die," and it's safe to say the conference succeeding in making a strong statement against globalism. CPAC in DC 2024 welcomed a number of international representatives and heads of state to stand in solidarity to preserve the sovereignty of their individual nations. Representatives from the CPAC conferences in Hungary, Australia, and Japan along with member of the Brazilian government, Eduardo Bolsonaro, several former U.S. ambassadors, former President Donald Trump, and two current presidents of El Salvador and Argentina, Nayib Bukele and Javier Milei, joined forces at the conference as advocates of the freedom and independence of their respective countries. The first ever CPAC International Summit united many of these representatives in conversation to reject globalism and protect the unique identities, needs, and democratic governments of each nation from Leftist, tyrannical administrative states. The summit resulted in the denouncing of the tyrannical regimes of Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, Joe Biden, and Lula de Silva, the collusion of wealthy businessmen with bureaucrats and ideological operatives to impose further tyranny, and the ruthless attack on Israel by Hamas and the inhumane, anti-semitic attacks on Jewish students and establishments that followed. The Left wants to destroy national sovereignty and crush the will of the people under bureaucratic and unelected entities like the World Health Organization, but CPAC is leading the charge to keep government for the people and by the people. See more from CPAC in DC 2024 at CPAC.org and on social media @CPAC.

The final day of this year's CPAC conference threw deathly blows at globalism with speeches from President Donald Trump, Kari Lake, Argentina president Javier Milei, and Steve Bannon. Saturday's speakers put an exclamation point on the weekend's stand for freedom with strong statements on the importance of free and fair elections, border security, limited government, and more to curb the spread of fascism around the globe. The day's speeches were followed by a celebratory watch party for President Donald Trump's victory in the South Carolina Republican primary. See these speeches and others on the CPAC livestream available here.

Day 2 of CPAC in DC 2024 continued to take a stand against globalism. Kristi Noem, Jim Jordan, Nigel Farage, Mark Levin, Jack Posobiec, Kat Cammack, and other conservative all-stars put Leftism in America and across the globe on full blast. The speeches of Day 2 exposed the incompetency of the Biden administration at the border and in election integrity, the weaponization of the justice system, the attacks on the Second Amendment, and more. The day was capped off by the iconic Ronald Reagan Dinner that featured remarks from Bishop Strickland and Vivek Ramaswamy. Catch Day 3 of CPAC in DC 2024 on the CPAC livestream at CPAC.org/live.

After an international summit on Wednesday that brought together conservative leaders, heads of state, elected officials, and dignitaries from all over the globe to the nation's capital, CPAC in DC 2024 officially began on Thursday on a high note with speeches from El Salvador President Nayib Bekele, PM Liz Truss, Tulsi Gabbard, Michael Knowles, and so many others. CPAC in DC 2024 started strong, diving head first into topics ranging from border security to government integrity to the 2024 election. Day One featured star-studded panels that tackled tough topics head on like abortion, the threats from China and Russia, the Left's attack on fossil fuels, and the dangerous march of globalism. Thousands of energized conservatives joined us on the very first day to hear these speeches and more and to stand together Where Globalism Goes to Die. Stand with us and catch the rest of the conference's speeches on the convenient CPAC livestream. Visit CPAC.org/live to start streaming CPAC in DC 2024 today!

Couldn’t make it to CPAC? Are you here but still don’t want to miss a minute of speeches while exploring CPAC Central? Tune in to the CPAC livestream! The CPAC livestream broadcasts every Main Stage speech live from the CPAC conference. The livestream covers the full length of the conference and is available starting today all the way through Saturday. Watch now at CPAC.org/live!

We’re only one day away from CPAC in DC 2024 being in full swing! As we put the final touches on the conference, here are a few answers to some frequently asked questions to help you make the most of your CPAC experience: What happens at CPAC conferences? Lots of things! You may know CPAC for the exceptional speeches from elected officials and conservative superstars, but we also bring together hundreds of conservative media members and news outlets on Media Row along with patriotic businesses, both small and large, at CPAC Central. All throughout the conference, you have infinite opportunities to socialize, network, and altogether find community with like-minded patriots. Where Should I Stay for CPAC? CPAC in DC 2024 is held at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center. For the greatest convenience, book a room at the Gaylord National to keep you closest to the action. Our neighborhood hotel, The Residence Inn National Harbor is another great option. It’s located just across the street from the Gaylord, keeping you close to the conference and offers a great value. Visit CPAC.org/DC to explore your hotel options. When can I check-in for the conference? Registration and badge pickup officially opens on Wednesday, February 21 at 5 p.m. Check out our conference agenda for all registration times. Who is speaking at CPAC? Our speakers include President Donald Trump, Argentina President Javier Milei, PM Liz Truss, and more. The full list of our speakers can be found on our website at CPAC.org/DC on our conference agenda. What is the Ronald Reagan Dinner? The Ronald Reagan Dinner is always a highlight of CPAC conferences! Named after friend and supporter of CPAC and the conservative icon, President Ronald Reagan, the dinner unites CPAC attendees and speakers for a night of fun with keynote addresses, a live auction, music, and dancing. Tickets to the Ronald Reagan Dinner can be purchased in addition to admission at CPAC.org/DC. See you at CPAC!

CPAC in DC 2024 is just days away and we’ve compiled a guide of things to do to help you make the most of your experience whether it’s your first time or fifth time. Have your QR code ready on your phone at check-in You should have received an email with a QR code shortly after purchasing your tickets online. When you arrive at CPAC and head to our registration area, you will scan that QR code to check-in and receive your badge. Having the QR code at hand on your phone will make check-in quick and easy so you can spend more time experiencing CPAC! Check out our Agenda ahead of time Plan out your weekend with our agenda for the conference’s events. A schedule is currently published on the website with the times for registration, Main Stage speeches, special events, and the CPAC Central hours. Check it out here. Download the CPAC App Keep all the information for the weekend’s events handy by downloading the CPAC mobile app. The app gives you easy access right on your phone to all the information for the conference, the schedule of speakers, and all things CPAC throughout the year! Download the app in the App Store and on Google Play today. Book your Hotel Accommodations If you have yet to book your hotel accommodations, fear not. You still have several great options for your stay. The Gaylord National is the host hotel for CPAC in DC 2024 and offers a variety of room options while keeping you closest to the conference and features several dining and retail options on-site. The Residence Inn, right across the street from the Gaylord, is our neighborhood hotel for the conference and offers convenience at a great value with our special group rate. Explore these hotel options and more at CPAC.org/DC

CPAC in DC 2024 will feature speeches from President Donald J. Trump, Argentina President Javier Milei, PM Liz Truss, and many more! You’ll get to hear from Kari Lake, Vivek Ramaswamy, Tim Ballard, and Savannah Chrisley, along with your favorite elected officials like Jim Jordan, J.D. Vance, Elise Stefanik, Ken Paxton, and Mark Green. You’ll also have the chance to hear from leading conservative commentators including Steve Bannon, Mark Levin, and Michael Knowles. View the current list of confirmed speakers at CPAC.org/dc and book your spot today!

CPAC welcomes various media to attend and cover our national conferences each year. Media Row houses studios, sets, and booths used by your favorite conservative reporters, commentators, and hosts for broadcasts directly from CPAC. Attendees have the unique opportunity to watch live the production of their favorite shows and broadcasts throughout the conference and meet the conservative side of media at Media Row. Learn more about the national CPAC conference at CPAC.org/DC

Instead of the traditional Presidential Super Bowl interview, and following on the heels of a disastrous news cycle and press conference regarding the president's mental acumen, President Biden instead took to the airwaves this past weekend to discuss "shrinkflation" (the economic condition whereby a company, in order to combat inflation, decides to shrink the portion size of a product instead of raising the prices for the product offered at that initial size). Unsurprising to anyone, the President focused his feigned ire at shrinkflation on supposedly greedy companies--instead of pointing the fingers at how the progressive policies he and his adherents both support and implment are what drives "shrinkflation"/ In the labyrinth of economic dynamics, the interplay between regulatory costs, inflation, and shrinkflation forms a complex narrative that profoundly impacts consumers and businesses alike. With regulatory costs on the rise, the domino effect on inflation and the subtler yet pervasive phenomenon of shrinkflation becomes increasingly evident. Here we delve into the intricate relationship among these elements, drawing on insights from a study by the National Association of Manufacturers, to argue that increased regulatory costs are a significant driver of both inflation and shrinkflation. The Burden of Regulatory Costs Regulatory costs, often overlooked, play a pivotal role in shaping the economic landscape. The National Association of Manufacturers' study underscores the hefty price tag associated with compliance, which not only burdens businesses but also indirectly affects consumers. These costs, ranging from adhering to complex regulations to navigating the so-called "regulatory dark matter" of informal guidelines and directives, can stifle innovation, deter investment, and increase operational expenses. The Biden administration's adjustments in the regulatory framework, such as the elevation of the threshold for economically significant rules, further complicate the landscape, potentially allowing more regulations to bypass in-depth cost analysis. This lack of transparency and the underestimation of regulatory costs fuel an environment ripe for economic inefficiencies. The Inflation Connection Inflation, a familiar adversary to both consumers and policymakers, is intricately linked to regulatory costs. As businesses grapple with the financial strain of compliance, these costs invariably trickle down to consumers in the form of higher prices for goods and services. The study's adjustment of regulatory costs for inflation offers a sobering perspective on the magnitude of this burden, highlighting how inflation exacerbates the impact of regulatory expenses. This inflationary pressure is not merely a theoretical concern but a tangible reality affecting everyday transactions and the overall cost of living. Shrinkflation: A Subtle Symptom Shrinkflation, while less overt than inflation, is a cunning manifestation of the economic pressures exerted by regulatory costs and inflation. The phenomenon, characterized by reducing the quantity or size of products while maintaining prices, is a strategic response by businesses to the dual challenges of rising manufacturing costs and consumer price sensitivity. As regulatory and inflationary pressures mount, shrinkflation becomes an increasingly appealing option for companies striving to balance cost management with consumer expectations. The Consumer's Dilemma For consumers, the impact of regulatory costs, inflation, and shrinkflation is a multifaceted predicament. The direct effects of inflation on purchasing power are compounded by the subtler erosion of value through shrinkflation. The strategies to mitigate these impacts, such as paying closer attention to unit prices or opting for whole foods over pre-packaged goods, require a heightened level of consumer awareness and engagement. Yet, these measures only address the symptoms without tackling the root causes: the increasing regulatory costs and the economic policies that fuel inflation. Towards Transparency and Reform The intricate dance between regulatory costs, inflation, and shrinkflation calls for a comprehensive approach to economic policy that prioritizes transparency, efficiency, and consumer welfare. By advocating for clearer regulatory cost assessments and more judicious policymaking, it is possible to mitigate the adverse effects on inflation and counteract the need for measures like shrinkflation. Root-to-branch reform of regulatory institutions, coupled with a commitment to economic transparency, can pave the way for a more stable and prosperous marketplace. It should come as a shock to no one that the President is using shrinkflation as a rallying cry--it is election season, after all, and the public is generally dissatisfied with the President's performance on the economy. But we have to make it clear to the President (and his allies) that the underlying causes for both inflation and shrinkflation rest clearly on his shoulders.