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@AnungIkwe I find the song fascinating. On the one hand, I’m not sure Oliver Anthony has a solution in mind, himself, or if he’s just venting. On the other hand, it hints at a different kind of “left” that focuses more on workers and less on welfare. I think it could actually be a good idea. With more money coming in through jobs (even if the higher wages had to be forced by living wage laws) there is less opportunity for the government to tie strings to hand outs.

I do support food stamps (which Anthony mocks), though, and entirely worker-based solutions may be bad for single Moms. That’s one of my biggest issues with conservatives. They celebrate Moms who refuse welfare and work long hours, but who is taking care of the kids?

I don’t think a solution to the problems Oliver Anthony raises is going to come from the stale, progressive Left. I think it needs fresh eyes. If populists who consider themselves conservative want to start taking on the issue of wages, hours, conditions, etc., for workers, then I hope they’ll do it. I’d love to hear their ideas. If they end up doing a better version of “left” and calling it “right,” I’m fine with that.