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Katie's avatar

Hi PJ—I’ve listened to your shows for years and think very highly of your reporting, and I love Search Engine! I was really glad to see an episode housing subsidies. You did say one thing on the show that I had to comment on—and I’m sure I won’t be the only one to point out. When talking about making the Sxn 8 program an entitlement you said something to the effect of “entitlements mean no one has to jump through hoops.” Entitlement programs, like SNAP and Medicaid, actually have huge administrative burdens and people struggle to get the programs they’re entitled to all the time. Check out an article in the Atlantic called the Time Tax for some info if you’re interested. I’m taking the time to correct this misconception because I think it plays into the broader narrative of “government hand outs” and how easy it is for people to lie and get benefits, going all the way back to the racist and damaging idea of “welfare queens”. In reality, these programs are complex and often difficult to access, even for the most deserving, and there’s usually no help available for those who need it. As an anti poverty attorney, it’s something I think about a lot!

Anyway—thanks for the great reporting and great show! Already looking forward to the next one!

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Howard's avatar

> But for me, for now, watching Michael Lewis try very hard to understand Sam Bankman-Fried felt like a good use of my time. I liked the book.

Very interesting, I've noticed the Lewis-dunking too and was curious about that. This tips me towards wanting to read for myself, having enjoyed many of Lewis's books before. Thanks.

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