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We are now in dangerous, uncharted territory having departed in too many ways from these principles. We’re bogged down from massive growth in government and national debt at an unprecedented level that exceeds our entire GDP. At the same time, our defense spending hovers around a post-WWII low as a percentage of GDP. Let’s look at one of the buzzwords that has emerged from the elections: “affordability.” Americans are mad about prices.
Let’s think about what causes high prices.
I am looking at a chart produced by economist Mark Perry using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Here are prices from the 2000 through June 2025 that have declined or increased less than the rate of inflation: TVs, toys, computer software, cellphone services, clothing, household furnishings and new cars.
Here are prices, over the same period, that increased more than the rate of inflation: hospital services, college tuition and fees, child care and nursery school, medical care services, housing and food and beverages.
What is the distinguishing factor in those goods and services that went down in price versus those that went up? The answer is those that increased in price over the 25-year period are things with a lot of government controls and regulations. Those that declined are things that operate in free and competitive markets.
The path to “affordability” — to declines in prices over time — is free markets and competition.
The path to rising prices and increasing burdens on consumers — more government.
Free markets and competition are what our country is about and what the Republican Party is about.
More government is what the Democratic Party is about.
It’s why we just saw the longest government shutdown in our nation’s history: Democrats’ refusal to back off the neverending government money machine.
The answer by Republicans to what appears to be a setback in the recent elections is not to join Democrats in their buzzword games.
The answer is to take on areas where we have lost our way and let in way too much government. And to constantly remind voters what our great country is about.
Star Parker is founder of the Center for Urban Renewal and Education. Her recent book, “What Is the CURE for America?” is available now. To find out more about Star Parker and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators. com. COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS. COM
