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Leave Us Alone with Grover Norquist

Grover Norquist

Leave Us Alone with Grover Norquist examines the core components of the Center-Right Movement and how these groups simply want to be left alone on their vote-moving issues.

Each week, ATR President Grover Norquist breaks down the latest tax, spending, and policy battles with Americans for Tax Reform's policy experts and key voices from across the conservative movement.

The show gives listeners the insight and clarity they need to push back against the Left's agenda and defend free markets, individual liberty, and a government that respects taxpayers' freedom.

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Thursday · 4 min
Are AI Data Centers Raising Your Electricity Bills? | ATR Quick Take
Are AI data centers driving up electricity prices and raising Americans' energy bills? Did President Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill create special tax breaks for data centers? In this five-minute ATR Quick Take, Americans for Tax Reform's James Erwin and Mike Palicz examine the debate over AI data centers, electricity costs, energy infrastructure, and federal tax policy. They discuss claims linking data center development to rising electricity rates, the growth of data centers in Northern Virginia, and proposed restrictions on Opportunity Zones. They also examine allegations of special data center tax breaks in Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill and explain how business expensing, equipment deductions, and depreciation rules apply to data center investments. Listen for a concise breakdown of the economic and tax policy questions shaping America's debate over AI infrastructure and data center development.
S4 · E14
October 2 · 36 min
How Trump Accounts Could Turn a Generation of Kids Into Owners
What if every American kid grew up with an investment account and a real stake in the U.S. economy? Grover Norquist sits down with Matt Lira, Executive Director of Invest America, to discuss Trump Accounts, the new investment accounts for American children, and how they could introduce a generation of kids to saving, investing, stock ownership, and long-term wealth building. Lira explains how Trump Accounts work, including the $1,000 federal contribution for eligible newborns, tax-free employer contributions, private ownership, and how parents, grandparents, employers, and philanthropists can contribute to a child's account. But the conversation goes far beyond personal finance. Norquist and Lira explore whether owning stock can change how young Americans see the economy, why ownership matters, and what happens when people gain new forms of economic freedom and opportunity. They also discuss a new model for philanthropy, major commitments from business leaders, and the story of how Trump Accounts became law. Lira takes listeners behind the scenes of the effort, including the roles of President Donald Trump, Sen. Ted Cruz, Michael Dell, Brad Gerstner, and other lawmakers and business leaders who helped move the idea forward. Could Trump Accounts turn millions of American kids into lifelong investors and owners? And could that change more than their bank accounts? Listen to the full conversation on Leave Us Alone with Grover Norquist. 00:00:00 Trump Accounts Explained 00:05:30 How to Sign Up 00:06:26 Why Ownership Matters 00:11:13 Stock Donations and IPOs 00:15:04 A New Era of Philanthropy 00:20:41 How Trump Accounts Became Law 00:26:24 Finding Champions in Congress
S4 · E12
July 14 · 28 min
The Hidden Tax You Never See: How Regulations Raise Prices
What do federal regulations really cost American families? In this episode of the Leave Us Alone podcast, Americans for Tax Reform President Grover Norquist sits down with Kent Lassman, President & CEO of the Competitive Enterprise Institute, to examine the hidden costs of the federal regulatory state. While taxes are easy to see, regulations quietly raise the price of nearly everything Americans buy, from housing and banking to transportation and everyday consumer goods. Lassman explains how federal regulations function as a hidden tax on families, why those costs are often overlooked, and how excessive regulation stifles innovation and economic growth. The conversation also explores the history of deregulation, the incentives that allow regulatory burdens to grow over time, and why meaningful reform requires both policymakers and taxpayers to understand the true cost of government intervention.
S4 · E11
May 29 · 29 min
Why Lawsuit Abuse Costs the Average Family $4,200 Every Year
The average American family pays roughly $4,200 every year because of lawsuit abuse. In this episode of the Leave Us Alone Podcast, Grover Norquist sits down with Lauren Zelt of Protecting American Consumers Together and Ryan Patrick of Texans for Lawsuit Reform to discuss how lawsuit abuse drives up the cost of car insurance, home insurance, healthcare, and everyday goods. They examine recent reforms in Florida and Georgia, why insurance rates are falling in some states, how trial lawyers influence state politics, and what policymakers can do to reduce costs for consumers. If you've ever wondered why insurance premiums keep rising, this conversation explains one of the biggest hidden costs facing American families.
S4 · E10
May 20 · 15 min
Gov. Kevin Stitt on Oklahoma's Path to Zero Income Taxes
Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt joins Grover Norquist on the Leave Us Alone podcast to discuss Oklahoma's "Path to Zero" plan to eliminate the state income tax, build long-term taxpayer protections, and keep government spending under control. Stitt explains how Oklahoma built billions in savings while cutting taxes, why economic growth accelerates when taxpayers keep more of their own money, and how the state is using spending discipline to move toward a zero income tax future. The conversation also covers school choice, limited government, free markets, tort reform, and why Oklahoma is positioning itself as one of the most pro-growth states in America.
S4 · E9
May 11 · 30 min
Why Everything Keeps Getting More Expensive
Governments at home and abroad are finding new ways to tax Americans while families struggle with inflation, housing costs, and affordability. In this episode of Leave Us Alone, Mike Palicz and James Erwin break down Europe's digital taxes targeting American tech companies, rising energy costs, Virginia Democrats pushing new taxes, and why taxing inflation is making the housing market worse.
S4 · E8
May 1 · 27 min
Oklahoma's Path to Zero: How Red States Are Moving to Eliminate Income Taxes
What does it take to eliminate a state income tax? Grover Norquist sits down with Oklahoma House Speaker Kyle Hilbert to discuss how Oklahoma is charting a path to a 0% income tax and why other states are beginning to follow. Oklahoma has reduced rates, simplified its tax code, and established a trigger-based path to zero as revenues grow. The goal is to lower the burden on taxpayers while maintaining responsible budgeting. They also discuss: How Oklahoma built the coalition to pass tax reform Why a phased approach to zero is gaining traction Tort reform and its impact on insurance costs School choice and broader state-level reforms As more states explore ways to reduce taxes and expand opportunity, Oklahoma offers a clear model for what comes next.
S4 · E7
April 23 · 20 min
Republicans Have One Easy Win on Inflation
Inflation is driving up costs. But there's a simple policy change that could make a real difference. Right now, the IRS taxes inflation as if it were real income. When your home, retirement savings, or small business increases in value because of inflation, you still pay taxes on the full gain. That means millions of Americans are being taxed on "phantom gains." Grover Norquist of Americans for Tax Reform explains how indexing capital gains for inflation would fix this problem by ensuring taxpayers only pay taxes on real gains. He outlines how this reform could be implemented, why it would boost investment and economic growth, and how it could improve affordability across the economy. This isn't a new idea. Policymakers in both parties have supported it in the past because it's practical, fair, and pro-growth. If lawmakers are looking for a clear, immediate step to address inflation and costs, this is one of the most straightforward options.
S4 · E5
March 9 · 29 min
STAFF TAKEOVER: Gavin Newsom's "Toddler Tax," Trump Accounts & Capital Gains Reform
Gavin Newsom's administration is targeting "Trump Accounts," tax free savings accounts designed to help families invest in their children's future. Critics are calling the move California's "Toddler Tax." In this special staff takeover episode of the Leave Us Alone podcast, the ATR team breaks down: • Why California wants to tax contributions to Trump Accounts • How these accounts help families build long term savings • Why blue states are resisting pro growth tax reforms • The latest push to index capital gains for inflation • Major Senate race developments and what they mean for tax policy The bigger question is simple. Should families be encouraged to save and invest, or should government claim a bigger share of their income? Listen to the full Leave Us Alone episode to hear the complete discussion.
S4 · E4
February 12 · 23 min
Job Growth Is Back. Government Is Shrinking. Here's Why It Matters.
The latest jobs report shows 172,000 private sector jobs added while the federal workforce shrinks by 327,000. Congress delivers a net discretionary spending cut, CBO projects stronger GDP growth, and Washington debates credit card interest rate caps and price controls. Grover Norquist, James Erwin, and Mike Palicz break down job growth, federal spending cuts, tax reform, Medicaid savings, and why price controls historically lead to shortages.
S4 · E3
February 6 · 30 min
Ronald Reagan's Legacy and Why It Still Matters
Ronald Reagan's legacy continues to shape American politics, economic policy, and national security. In this episode of Leave Us Alone, Grover Norquist is joined by David Trulio, President and CEO of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute, and Rachel Loren of the Ronald Reagan Legacy Project for a wide-ranging conversation on Reagan's enduring principles and why they remain relevant today. The discussion explores Reagan's role in restoring economic growth, winning the Cold War, and rebuilding American confidence. It also looks at how the Reagan Library, Institute, and Legacy Project are working to teach younger generations about limited government, free enterprise, peace through strength, and individual liberty. This episode is about leadership, ideas, and why freedom must be taught and defended by every generation.
S4 · E2
January 29 · 38 min
The Truth About Welfare, Poverty, and Income in America
In this episode of Leave Us Alone, Grover Norquist sits down with former U.S. Senator Phil Gramm for a wide-ranging conversation on tax policy, economic growth, and the role of government in shaping economic outcomes. The discussion spans the stagflation and economic crisis of the late 1970s, Gramm's role in passing the Reagan tax cuts, and the long-term effects of those reforms on inflation, growth, and opportunity. The episode also examines welfare spending, poverty statistics, and claims about economic inequality. Gramm explains how government benefits are often excluded from official income measurements, why those accounting choices matter, and how they influence debates over taxes, spending, and federal policy. The conversation concludes with a look at state-level tax reforms and why fiscal discipline and honest measurement remain central to long-term economic growth.
S4 · E1
January 16 · 30 min
The Betrayal: 17 Republicans Vote to Expand Obamacare
On this episode of Leave Us Alone, Grover Norquist is joined by Mike Palicz and Isabelle Marchese to break down one of the most consequential votes of this Congress. Seventeen House Republicans joined with ALL Congressional Democrats to pass a clean three-year extension of enhanced Obamacare subsidies. The panel explains how this vote expands Obamacare, masks its rising costs, and knowingly continues a program riddled with fraud and improper payments. They discuss the real cost of the subsidies, the political maneuvering behind the discharge petition, the failure to include any reforms or anti-fraud measures, and what this vote means as the bill heads to the Senate. The episode closes with a broader discussion of Republican principles, political accountability, and the pro-growth tax reforms already delivering higher wages and larger tax refunds.
S3 · E28
January 3 · 18 min
How a Simple Pledge Protects Taxpayers
The Taxpayer Protection Pledge is a written commitment taken by candidates and elected officials promising never to raise taxes. In this episode, Grover Norquist explains why the pledge was created, who signs it, and how it changed incentives for politicians at every level of government. From the 1986 Tax Reform Act to presidential campaigns and state tax reform, the pledge became a clear contract between officeholders and taxpayers. By forcing politicians to control their own vote rather than rely on vague promises, the Taxpayer Protection Pledge reshaped elections, restrained tax hikes, and helped define which party voters could trust on taxes.
S3 · E27
Dec 22, 2025 · 21 min
The Real Political Divide in America Today
The real political divide in America is not left versus right. It is the Leave Us Alone Coalition versus the Takings Coalition. In this episode of Leave Us Alone, Grover Norquist explains how these two coalitions compete over tax policy, spending, and the size of government. The discussion breaks down who belongs to each coalition, why the Takings Coalition constantly pushes for higher taxes, and why the Leave Us Alone Coalition must stay united to protect taxpayers. This episode explains politics the way it actually works, through incentives, not slogans.
S3 · E26
Dec 16, 2025 · 44 min
What Does the Republican Whip Actually Do? Rep. Tom Emmer Explains
This week on Leave Us Alone, Grover Norquist is joined by Mike Palicz and James Erwin for a brief discussion on rising healthcare costs, Obamacare affordability, and end-of-year battles in Washington. The episode then features a special guest interview with House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN), who explains what the Republican Whip actually does. Emmer breaks down his role counting votes, communicating with House members, and helping move legislation across the House floor in today's political environment. The conversation also covers the failures of the Affordable Care Act, including widespread fraud in expanded Obamacare subsidies and how those subsidies funnel taxpayer dollars to insurance companies rather than patients. Emmer discusses making the Trump tax cuts permanent, fights over must-pass legislation like the NDAA, and why he signed the Taxpayer Protection Pledge to protect taxpayers from higher taxes and runaway government spending.
S3 · E25
Dec 10, 2025 · 27 min
Reconciliation, Obamacare Fraud, and Steve Moore on Ending the Tax on Inflation
Grover Norquist and Mike Palicz break down how the next reconciliation package is being shaped by the failures of Obamacare, including a new GAO report exposing widespread fraud and improper subsidies. They outline why expanding Obamacare subsidies would be a mistake, what Republicans should prioritize in reconciliation, and why tariffs must stay out. The episode also features a special interview with economist Steve Moore, who explains how ending the taxation of inflation through capital gains indexing could be one of the biggest pro-growth moves available today.
S3 · E23
Oct 31, 2025 · 30 min
Shutdown Politics, Obamacare Subsidies, and the Cost of Big Government with AFP's Brent Gardner
As the shutdown drags on, Grover Norquist and Brent Gardner of Americans for Prosperity break down how Democrats are holding taxpayers hostage in a political fight over Obamacare subsidies. Gardner explains how Democrats have tied reopening the government to extending Obamacare subsidies, the ongoing fight over spending and healthcare costs, and what it all means for taxpayers. Brent shares insights on AFP's work in every state, the grassroots movement for limited government, and how Americans can push back against Washington's overspending and overreach. Listen in for a conversation about shutdown politics, healthcare reform, and how citizens can make a difference in restoring fiscal sanity and freedom.
S3 · E22
Oct 24, 2025 · 34 min
The Obamacare Ransom: Why Democrats Are Holding the Government Hostage
The Leave Us Alone team examines how the latest government shutdown fight centers on Obamacare. Grover Norquist, Mike Palicz, James Erwin, and Jack Baum explain how Democrats are using the shutdown as leverage to push for another extension of Obamacare's temporary subsidies, which were meant to expire after the pandemic. They discuss how this political strategy hides the real cost of the program and why conservatives are rejecting another taxpayer-funded bailout. The team also looks at key state elections in New Jersey and Maine, where affordability, energy costs, and taxes are defining the campaigns. In the final segments, the hosts cover new developments from the FTC and the United Nations, exploring how regulatory overreach and global tax proposals could affect innovation, energy, and economic freedom.
S3 · E21
Oct 16, 2025 · 29 min
The Schumer Shutdown: What's the Democrats' Endgame?
Sixteen days into the government shutdown, the American people aren't feeling the effects. Should Democrats be worried? Is their strategy working? What's their exit strategy? Grover Norquist is joined by political strategist Liam Donovan and ATR's Mike Palicz to break down how Democrats' $1.5 trillion in new spending demands have fallen flat, how the media landscape has changed shutdown politics, and what redistricting could mean for control of Congress in the years ahead. About Liam Donovan: Liam joins Targeted Victory as the head of the firm's Risk & Reputation practice. Over the course of two decades working at the intersection of politics and policy, he has held senior roles at a national trade association and a global law and lobbying firm. Before beginning his advocacy career, Liam spent four years and two election cycles on the staff of the National Republican Senatorial Committee. Check out Liam Donovan's own podcast, The Lobby Shop, where he dives deeper into the intersection of politics, policy, and the people shaping Washington.

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