The Truth About Tariffs, Taxes, & State Reforms with Erica York

​What if everything you thought you knew about tariffs and taxes was wrong? In this episode of the Let People Prosper Show, Erica York, senior economist and research director at the Tax Foundation, unpacks the truth behind tariffs, the future of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, and why states compete to lead on tax reform.

If you want to understand how these policies impact your wallet and why states like Texas and Kansas are shaking things up with bold reforms, this episode is for you. Erica’s insights go beyond the headlines, offering a clear picture of what’s driving economic change—and what it means for your future.

See show notes at vanceginn.substack.com.

(0:00): Intro: The real impact of tariffs and tax policies
(3:20): Why tariffs hurt Americans more than they help
(8:45): The smarter alternative to tariffs: Free trade agreements
(12:10): How the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act changed the economy
(18:30): What happens when the tax cuts expire?
(22:45): State-level tax reform: Flat taxes and property tax reductions
(29:00): Why competition among states matters for growth
(36:05): Practical reforms that create long-term prosperity
(40:50): Final thoughts: How policy drives opportunity