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Why Government Makes Us Miserable

Sep 5, 2026 · 1h 21m

Summary

Journalist Annie Lowry discusses her new book, The Time Tax, which argues that bureaucratic burdens disproportionately harm low-income Americans and erode trust in government. She explains how administrative hurdles, such as complex paperwork and work requirements, function as a hidden tax on time that drives citizens away from public services. Lowry contrasts the U.S. system with Estonia’s efficient digital infrastructure and suggests practical reforms, like IRS pre-filled tax returns, to reduce these burdens. The conversation highlights the political implications of poor service delivery …

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