Debt, Deficits, and The Big Beautiful Bill: With Economist Scott Baier
In this episode of the National Land Podcast, host Mac Christian sits down with Dr. Scott Baier, Professor of Economics and Associate Dean of Research at Clemson University, to unpack the economic realities behind tariffs, global trade, and the growing U.S. national debt.
We delve into how U.S.-China trade tensions, tariffs on Canada and Mexico, and the evolution of trade agreements like NAFTA to USMCA are influencing supply chains and U.S. manufacturing. Dr. Baier explains the real impact of tariffs on consumers, businesses, and jobs, and why many economists remain skeptical of their long-term benefits.
The conversation also covers:
- How global supply chain risks are shifting post-COVID
- The legal challenges facing the presidential tariff authority
- The connection between federal deficits, debt, and entitlement programs
- What’s driving the national debt, and what realistic solutions exist to reduce it
- Why Social Security and Medicare are central to the deficit conversation
- Whether offshoring is truly harming American manufacturing jobs
Packed with insights and clear economic breakdowns, this episode is a must-listen for anyone following U.S. economic policy, global trade, or national fiscal health.