On a special Labor Day edition of War Room, economists EJ Antoni and Dave Brat discussed the critical economic themes affecting the United States today. Their discussion focused on labor issues highlighted for years by the WarRoom, the impact of current policies, and the dangers of adopting economic strategies reminiscent of less developed nations.

Antoni thinks that adopting economic strategies similar to those used in Third World countries, such as price controls, which Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris talks about, would not be good for the citizens of the United States.

"If you use Third World tactics, you get Third World problems,” he said.

Antoni and Brat’s conversation highlighted a growing alignment between their longstanding critiques and recent mainstream media coverage, particularly concerning border issues, federal spending, and ongoing military engagements.

Antoni observed, "What’s shocking is that the mainstream media is finally starting to announce some of the things we’ve been saying on the War Room for the past two, three, four years.”

Antoni’s critique centered on three major concerns: the "border invasion,” excessive federal spending, and endless military conflicts. He described these issues as central to the America First populist revolution.

Antoni connected these economic problems with Labor Day reflections, emphasizing that modern financial practices, particularly inflation, represent a form of "modern-day slavery.”

He explained, "Inflation is a way to rob you of the value of the money you receive in exchange for your labor,” arguing that recent economic policies have significantly eroded the value of workers’ earnings.

Dave Brat supported Antoni’s critique by framing the discussion within the broader context of capitalism’s historical benefits.

Brat highlighted how capitalism has improved labor conditions and economic outcomes over time, noting, "The free market system… brought us emancipation from slavery, women’s entrance into the labor force, and economic growth.”

He emphasized that capitalist advancements have allowed workers to retain more earnings, increasing productivity and innovation. However, Brat expressed concern that recent economic policies are straying from these beneficial principles, risking adverse outcomes for American workers.

Both Antoni and Brat expressed dissatisfaction with current economic practices and policies. Antoni specifically criticized inaccuracies in Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) job reports, which he argued mask deeper systemic issues. "The BLS needs a way to account for changes in the number of businesses, but the statistics don’t match reality,” Antoni said, highlighting concerns about how these discrepancies affect the true state of the labor market.

He argued that such third-world policies could lead to severe inefficiencies and shortages, pointing to government overreach in healthcare and education as contributing factors. Antoni described the U.S. healthcare system as a "medical cartel,” criticizing excessive government regulation and taxation for stifling domestic manufacturing and pushing jobs overseas.

Brat echoed Antoni’s concerns, stressing the need to restore the value of labor within economic policy. He criticized current systems for neglecting American workers and called for a reevaluation of policies to support labor better.

"Labor has been sidelined in favor of policies that prioritize short-term gains or cater to special interests,” Brat argued. This emphasis on labor aligns with Antoni’s broader critique of policies that undermine the economic well-being of American workers.

The Labor Day edition of War Room provided a critical examination of contemporary economic issues, with Antoni and Brat highlighting the neglect of labor and the risks associated with adopting Third World economic practices.

Their discussion shows the urgent need for policy reforms prioritizing American workers and addressing systemic inefficiencies to ensure a more equitable and effective economic system.

For more context, watch this whole segment from Monday’s WarRoom: