After an assassin killed Charlie Kirk for his ostensibly hateful views, millions grieved. Others mocked Kirk. But now some of the mockers are losing their jobs as payback for their vindictiveness, raising a question: Are we seeing a kind of right-wing “cancel culture” at odds with the American principle of free speech? Independent Institute President Graham Walker, Senior Fellow and David J. Theroux Chair Phillip W. Magness, and Senior Fellow Williamson Evers explore this question with the help of Nadine Strossen, longtime President of the ACLU, on a new episode of Independent Conversations.

Also this week, Ivan Eland publishes a standalone article analyzing the Pentagon’s efforts to develop a new National Defense Strategy for the United States. He notes that while a refinement of the American stance towards China is welcome, early indications suggest the Pentagon is adopting a more aggressive posture towards Latin America and domestic law enforcement.

Vicent Geloso dispels the all-too-common myth that immigration leads to lower wages.

Brady Leonard calls for political honesty in the face of inconvenient data.

Craig Eyermann explains why the government shutdown won’t trigger a debt default.

And finally, Christopher J. Calton warns conservatives about compromising on free speech.

Happy reading.

Jonathan Hofer
Managing Editor