Relaxed Restrictions on Home Development in Conservative Regions
In the realm of urban affairs and politics, several significant events have taken place recently.
Frank S. Meyer's personal papers are being sought, as reported by The American Spectator, in an effort to uncover lost documents related to the conservative movement. Meanwhile, Christopher F. Rufo, another Senior Fellow at the Manhattan Institute, made an appearance on Real Time with Bill Maher. Nicole Stelle Garnett, another Senior Fellow at the Manhattan Institute, penned an article in National Review discussing parental rights. The institute also publishes a quarterly magazine focusing on urban affairs.
The Coolidge Review published an intriguing article comparing Theodore Roosevelt and Trump, while Law & Liberty delved into the topic of free speech. On the other hand, The Point explored the world of boxing.
In the realm of economics and public policy, several states have been making headlines. Colorado, Washington, and Oregon have pursued progressive policies such as legalizing recreational marijuana, expanding renewable energy, and investing in social programs. These policies have contributed to economic growth through new industries and job creation, while also attracting a younger, more diverse population and driving urbanization. However, some recent reports suggest that these states are now experiencing sluggish housing construction, job growth, and a deteriorating business climate due to adopting certain policies.
To counteract this, several red states have passed pro-housing legislation to lower housing costs, as reported on August 26, 2025. Montana and Texas have effectively combined pro-growth business policies with housing reform and environmental conservation. However, some red states, such as South Carolina and South Dakota, continue to resist pro-growth reform.
In Chicago, Illinois, the new pension sweeteners signed by governor J.B. Pritzker may lead to another credit downgrade for the city and potential fiscal collapse. This comes after Illinois governor J.B. Pritzker signed a bill that includes pension "sweeteners" for Chicago police and fire employees, creating $11 billion in new liabilities.
Elsewhere, the caliphate is reportedly returning as a threat to Europe, according to UnHerd. A survey found that respondents were less likely to approve of legally reasonable force when reading protest-and-reform or race-themed headlines about police use of force.
Lastly, commentator goonboon weighed in on New York City closing early, while Jordan McGillis, the Economics Editor at City Journal (a publication of the Manhattan Institute), discussed the high cost of childcare in the US on Fox & Friends First.
In conclusion, it appears that states need to find a balance between progressive policies and pro-growth reforms to ensure economic stability and attractiveness. Avoiding the California model, which some argue is a prescription for decline, may be key to turning things around for struggling states.
