Twinkies and Taxes: The Sweet Temptation of Fiscal Irresponsibility

Twinkies and Taxes: The Sweet Temptation of Fiscal Irresponsibility

With Zach Moller,

Director of the Economic Program, Third Way

In this episode of Gross Domestic Problem, William is joined by Zach Moller, Director of the Economic Program at Third Way. During the conversation, William and Zach discuss America's fiscal challenges, focusing on the national debt and its economic implications. Zach explains the rapid rise in interest spending and the need for fiscal responsibility across party lines. Key areas for reform include healthcare cost management, defense spending, and tax policy adjustments. The episode highlights the complexities of tax reform and the political landscape, advocating for a bipartisan fiscal commission to address these issues comprehensively and ensure long-term economic stability.

Key topics in today’s conversation include:

Zach’s Background and Journey to Third Way (0:48)
Misconceptions About Party Fiscal Responsibility (3:09)
Health Care Spending Reforms (6:30)
Understanding the Ten-Year Budget Window (8:17)
Defense Spending and Waste Concerns (10:35)
The Federal Budget Breakdown (13:21)
Program Integrity and Government Efficiency (16:05)
Avenues for Spending Reform (19:29)
Political Perspectives on Spending (22:11)
Tax Revenue and Political Landscape (24:05)
Current Law vs. Current Policy (26:00)
Complexities of Tax Revenue Solutions (28:10)
Future of Tax Policy Changes (30:27)
Challenges in Addressing National Debt (32:05)
Final Thoughts and Takeaways (34:22)

Gross Domestic Problem is a podcast from the Millennial Debt Foundation focusing on America’s biggest financial crisis. Each episode, we break down how we got here, what happens if we don’t act, and the least painful way forward. There’s no do-nothing solution. Subscribe now at grossdomesticproblem.com and join the conversation.

About the Show

William Glass

William Glass is a leader in the national conversation on fiscal responsibility, serving as a key voice for the Millennial Debt Foundation. As a passionate advocate for responsible government spending and debt reduction, William works to engage policymakers, young professionals, and thought leaders in addressing America’s growing national debt crisis. Through his work with the Foundation, he champions bipartisan solutions and fosters meaningful dialogue on the economic challenges facing future generations. William brings a fresh perspective to fiscal policy, emphasizing the importance of long-term financial stability and responsible governance.

The Millennial Debt Foundation was launched in mid-2019 by Tennessean Weston Wamp and other millennial entrepreneurs to lead a generational conversation about fiscal stewardship, the role of the federal government and America’s deficit spending crisis. Inspired by the work of our early advisor, the late U.S. Senator Tom Coburn, M.D., the Foundation’s first major project was the Millennial Debt Commission. The business-led Commission is made up of 20 millennial business leaders from across the country working towards a framework for long-term deficit reduction and stabilization of the national debt. The business leaders have been advised by a cohort of current and former members of Congress, leading economists and policy experts. MDF is a nonpartisan, Tennessee-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit funded by individual donors, the Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation, and Arnold Ventures.

Learn More at millennialdebt.org