Civitas Outlook
Topic
Politics
Published on
March 21, 2026
Contributors
Richard Epstein
Charles C.W. Cooke
Episode
The Libertarian

Tax the Rich . . . Until They Leave: Mamdani and Rent Control

About this episode

Richard Epstein takes aim at NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s push for rent control and higher inheritance taxes, arguing that both policies punish landlords, shrink housing supply, and ultimately drive wealth—and people—out of the state. From empty apartments and collapsing incentives to interstate tax competition and capital flight, Epstein lays out a stark warning: policies that sound compassionate in the short run can devastate cities over time. A sharp, unsparing look at markets, incentives, and the high cost of getting them wrong.

All other episodes on

The Libertarian

The Half-War

Richard Epstein examines the unfolding U.S. confrontation with Iran through both a strategic and constitutional lens, arguing that President Trump’s approach reflects a deeper tension between military necessity and political constraint.

EP
Apr 11, 2026

A Turning Point For Section 2: SCOTUS Reins in the Voting Rights Act

Charles C. W. Cooke and Richard Epstein break down the Supreme Court’s latest Voting Rights Act decision, examining the ruling in 'Louisiana v. Callais.'

EP
Apr 29, 2026

Trump and Executive Power

Episode #2 of the The Libertarian with Richard Epstein, hosted by Charles C.W. Cooke.

EP2

Israel vs. New York Times

Episode 3 of The Libertarian with Richard Epstein and Charles C.W. Cooke.

EP3
Aug 7, 2025

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