Congressional Economics

[Geee]

American Spectator:

The House of Representatives is not exactly a bastion of economic knowledge. But it can be a goldmine for economic educators if they know where to look. Illinois' 2nd District is a good place to start. Containing parts of Chicago and its suburbs, the district is currently represented by Rep. Jesse Jackson, Jr.

He recently gave two speeches on the House floor that inadvertently teach important economic lessons. In the first speech, delivered on March 2, Jackson teaches us that you can't legislate prosperity. (You can watch it here.)

He argues for a Constitutional Amendment guaranteeing everyone the right to a decent home. Jackson asks, "What would that do for home construction in this nation? What would that do for millions of unemployed people?"

The Constitution should also be amended to guarantee the right to decent health care. Jackson implores, "How many doctors would such a right create?"

Education needs an amendment, too. "How many schools would such a right build, from Maine to California?" Jackson goes on to wonder how many jobs would be created by giving every student an iPad and a laptop.