DL Open Thread Monday, March 11, 2024

I realize that most opposition to immigration stems from tribalism and protectionism, but something anti-immigration warriors rarely appreciate is simple economics: More people equals more economic activity. That’s why the Congressional Budget Office estimates increased immigration will add $7 trillion, with a T, to the U.S. economy over the next decade. Trump’s vow to deport millions of people would, of course, shrink the economy instead. I don’t expect him to understand the math – this is a guy who couldn’t figure out what nut he could cover at the interest rates he got, thereby bankrupting several casinos – but the GOP used to include a few business types who understood basic subtraction.

Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to invade the southern Gaza city of Rafah, thereby defying Biden’s “red line.” He says he has the quiet backing of Arab nations that consider Hamas to be aligned against Iran. That’s one of the things American media never mentions about the mess in the Middle East – one motive for Saudi Arabia making common cause with Israel is that it’s part of Islam’s never-ending Sunni-Shia divide.

What do you call it when a corporation hides $3 billion in profits with an overseas subsidiary and, once the IRS comes calling, hires a gaggle of politically connected lawyers to put the kibosh on the investigations? If you’re Caterpillar Inc., you call it a smart move that paid off. If you’re a taxpayer, you call it business as usual.

Remember that NFL playoff game in Kansas City in January played in below-zero temperatures? Some of the fans who were there won’t soon forget. Several of them got frostbite so severe they lost fingers or toes to amputation. Just more proof that sports fandom can give you a lifetime of memories.

The floor’s yours.