Why Affordability Is the Defining Issue of 2026 | This Week's Economy Ep. 152

​Affordability may be the defining word of 2026. After years of elevated inflation, a housing affordability crisis, and signs of softness in the labor market, many Americans are feeling squeezed—and looking for answers. You can expect this issue to loom large at the polls in November. That’s why state and federal lawmakers should confront one of the central drivers of this “unaffordable” economy: fiscal irresponsibility. Persistent overspending helps fuel inflation and adds uncertainty that holds back growth. It’s time to get serious about sustainable budgeting and pro-growth policies that expand opportunity—so Americans can find well-paid jobs, secure affordable housing, and afford daily life again.

In today’s This Week’s Economy, I take an honest look at the latest economic data—even where it challenges media narratives. We’ll also examine the risks of a rising push for social media bans and why energy abundance is essential to powering our technological future.

Let’s dive in! Catch the full episode on YouTube, Apple Podcast, or Spotify, and visit my website for more information.