Michael R. Strain

Michael R. Strain

Michael R. Strain, Director of Economic Policy Studies at the American Enterprise Institute, is the author of The American Dream Is Not Dead (But Populism Could Kill It)

Is Affluence a Barrier to Living Well?

In a new book, Brink Lindsey argues that wealthy liberal democracies have essentially solved the problem of material provision and are now experiencing a nervous breakdown. But humans have always struggled with the challenge of living well and wisely.

Michael R. Strain

February 9, 2026 at 10:52 AM IST

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iStock.com

Why Trump Has an Affordability Problem

As prices stay nearly 25% above pre-pandemic levels, Trump’s dismissal of affordability fears ignores tariffs, inflation psychology, and the everyday costs squeezing US households.

Michael R. Strain

December 26, 2025 at 3:42 AM IST

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Kremlin

Can the American Right Find Its Way Back?

Under Trump’s watch, his MAGA movement has served as a conduit for some of the ugliest forces in politics to make a run at the mainstream.

Michael R. Strain

November 17, 2025 at 4:26 PM IST

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White House

The Fed's Wrong Move

Judging from the labour market, price inflation, consumer spending, and overall economic activity, a 4.4% federal funds rate did not seem to be significantly restraining consumers and businesses.

Michael R. Strain

September 18, 2025 at 12:05 PM IST

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Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City

Is Trump About to Fire the Fed Chair?

The Fed’s independence has been one of the most important and stabilizing developments in economic policy in decades. Trump would hurt businesses and households by damaging it.

Michael R. Strain

July 22, 2025 at 3:17 AM IST

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US Federal Reserve

Should We Have Faith In Markets?

In a market economy, hard work pays off: productivity largely determines compensation. When effort is rewarded, people have agency and can practice the virtue of personal responsibility.

Michael R. Strain

June 20, 2025 at 10:45 AM IST

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PIB

Leo XIV And The Pro-Market Tradition Of The Church

Leo XIV occupies the Chair of Saint Peter at a time when the moral foundations of free markets are under attack.

Michael R. Strain

May 13, 2025 at 12:28 PM IST

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JacobTheRox/Via WikiCommons

Trump's Tariffs Won't Bring Back Manufacturing Jobs

Trump’s trade war will not revive manufacturing employment. It will do the opposite, all while raising consumer prices, slowing economic growth, and increasing unemployment.

Michael R. Strain

April 21, 2025 at 4:00 PM IST

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The Bureau

India-US Trade Deal: What Happens Next?
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