Fiscal Democracy in America with Kurt Couchman | Let People Prosper 165

​Today’s guest is Kurt Couchman, Senior Fellow in Fiscal Policy at Americans for Prosperity—and a trusted fiscal ally since our days in Washington, back when he was at the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget. Kurt’s cutting-edge thinking on balanced-budget amendments, statutory fiscal targets, and bipartisan reform has made him one of the most respected voices in the fight against runaway spending.

His new book, Fiscal Democracy in America: How a Balanced Budget Amendment Can Restore Sound Governance, is out now—and it’s essential reading if you care about fiscal responsibility, government accountability, and long-term economic growth.

For more insights, visit vanceginn.com. You can also get even greater value by subscribing to my Substack newsletter at vanceginn.substack.com. Please share with your friends, family, and broader social media network. 

(0:00) – Introduction to Fiscal Policy and Guest Background
(3:02) – Why Fiscal Responsibility Matters for Future Generations
(5:50) – Lessons from Working in Congress
(12:06) – The Role of Institutional Economics in Budgeting
(15:00) – Incentives and Accountability in Congress
(23:16) – Principles-Based Balanced Budget Amendments
(25:40) – Pathways to a Balanced Budget Amendment
(31:06) – The Role of Primary Balance in Budgeting
(35:39) – Why Comprehensive Budgeting Is Essential
(42:41) – Finding Political Solutions for Fiscal Reform