Part 5/10:
He argues that local tax policies and the legislative environment have driven away major companies, including Boeing, Amazon, and Microsoft, further impoverishing the region. High taxes, increased regulation, and a lack of investment in workforce development have all contributed to a steady exodus of wealthy individuals and corporations seeking more hospitable environments—like Ohio, Idaho, and other states with lower tax burdens.
Anti-Growth Policies and Their Consequences
The core issue, according to Spadey, is what he describes as "anti-growth" policies driven by a mix of legacy Democratic leadership and increasingly left-leaning, anti-capitalist ideologies. These policies tend to prioritize tax hikes and social programs over fostering business growth and innovation.