What is the Best Way to Spur Job Creation?

Download MP3

With North Carolina's unemployment rate at 9.7 percent, the question of what to do to spur job creation is critical, and both Gov. Beverly Perdue and the GOP-led General Assembly have their proposals. How do they compare in terms of their impact on job creation and job loss? John Locke Foundation Director of Health and Fiscal Policy Studies Joe Coletti discusses a Beacon Hill Institute economic analysis of both plans. He also discusses the area on which the governor and the legislature agree - reducing the corporate income tax rate -- and that policy's impact on the economy. Then we turn to national politics. The American political scene has changed drastically since voters gave Barack Obama a clear victory in the 2008 presidential election. Jonah Goldberg, National Review Online editor-at-large, has been fascinated by the changes. He discusses their significance for the future of American politics. Next, some state lawmakers are pushing for changes that would limit local governments' ability abuse the power of eminent domain. You'll hear a recent debate on the topic featuring House Majority Leader Paul Stam, R-Wake, and Rep. Mickey Michaux, D-Durham. That's followed by a look at a spirited debate that has bogged down in recent weeks. Legislative leaders still hope to reach a deal on lifting North Carolina's charter school cap. Meanwhile, the head of the National Alliance of Public Charter Schools sees positive signs for the charter movement across the country. Peter Groff shares his thoughts about recent charter school developments. And finally, more and more, Gov. Beverly Perdue is eschewing traditional news conferences and making major announcements such as vetoes on social media including YouTube. Carolina Journal Publisher Jon Ham discusses the governor's actions and how it might impact the public's access to information.