The Ripon Forum
Volume 51, No. 1
February 2017
In this edition
by LOU ZICKAR
Chaos is easy. Governance is hard. And in that regard, America’s new President has a long way to go. The goal of this edition of the Forum is to look at ways that the President and Congress can provide the American people with value for their tax dollars.
Continuing the Shift on Cuba
by TOM EMMER
While engagement with Cuba may not result in unprecedented levels of economic growth or immediate peace and prosperity in the region, there are numerous benefits that could be realized if we continue to shift away from the Cold War mentality of isolation.
Continuing Unilateral Concessions Towards Cuba is not in the U.S. Interest
by ANA QUINTANA
We must pursue a Cuba policy that enables and fosters a democratic transition and ends the rule of the Castro regime. There are few things more “America First” than fixing what Obama broke in Cuba.
How Republican Governors are Turning New England Red
by GARY SASSE
The question facing Republicans in New England is whether GOP victories at the gubernatorial level can usher in a new political order at other levels of government, as well.
Even the OECD Admits Big Government Undermines Prosperity
by DANIEL J. MITCHELL
The OECD’s economists have crunched numbers and determined that reducing the burden of government spending can boost GDP by an average of 10 percent.
Value: The New Watchword in Washington
by LOU ZICKAR
Americans want value for their tax dollars. Which is why the ultimate test for the President and Congress will not be their allegiance to old Republican mantras. It will be their ability to convince Americans that their tax dollars are finally being put to good use.
How to Make America Great Again with Domestic Energy Resources
by T. BOONE PICKENS
The legendary businessman offers his advice on how the new President can secure our nation’s energy future, and outlines the plan he has authored to do just that.
Making Social Security Last For All
by TOM COLE
Protecting Social Security will not only preserve this important program for future generations, but will send a message to taxpayers that their money is being well spent.
Stretching the School Dollar
by FREDERICK M. HESS
The U.S. spends close to $700 billion a year on K-12 schooling, yet our results are middle-of-the pack and our colleges are beset by price inflation and unhelpful degrees.
Getting a Better Return on Our Health Dollars
by TEVI TROY
The average American pays over $9,000 for health care each year, and yet the life expectancy of the average American ranks 42nd in the world.
