Below is my recent interview on the Tyler Cralle Show in defense of a robust understanding of property rights that seems to be missed by some leaders in North Carolina and the nation. Undoubtedly, one of the more disturbing aspects of the COVID-19 crisis was the shutdown and decimation of many small businesses that played by the rules, and just as things were opening back up some of their shops or retail outlets were looted or destroyed.
The interview addresses a piece I wrote on why the government has a fundamental duty to protect private property. I covered a decent amount on this issue, but I do want to emphasize that state and local governments in allowing lawlessness, failed many businesses in their time of need. These are citizens who pour their life into a business, pay taxes, pay wages to others, and follow the laws. They should never be second class citizens to mob violence or destruction. “Government is instituted no less for the protection of the property than of the persons of individuals,” declared James Madison.
We always need a robust understanding of property rights because it’s what has helped make this nation so great. It’s why we have a stable and energetic middle class, unlike many nations around the globe where a person’s property is seized or overtaken violently by despots. It’s why order and the rule of law are required in a nation for liberty to flourish.
