The United States just recorded its largest improvement in economic freedom in more than two decades, according to the 2026 Index of Economic Freedom. What’s driving the turnaround—and what does it mean for small businesses and economic growth?

On this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker sits down with Heritage Foundation Chief Economist EJ Antoni to break down the key factors behind the U.S. rebound. They discuss the role of deregulation, tax policy, and investment incentives, why excessive government regulation disproportionately harms small businesses, and how America compares to other economies around the world.

They also dive into the latest jobs data, productivity gains driven by AI, and the long-term risks posed by federal debt and deficits. Plus, Antoni explains why policies that expand economic freedom are essential for higher wages, stronger growth, and improved living standards.

Check out the Economic Report for yourself - https://economicfreedom.heritage.org/

The United States just recorded its largest improvement in economic freedom in more than two decades, according to the 2026 Index of Economic Freedom. What&rsquo;s driving the turnaround&mdash;and what does it mean for small businesses and economic growth?
On this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker sits down with Heritage Foundation Chief Economist EJ Antoni to break down the key factors behind the U.S. rebound. They discuss the role of deregulation, tax policy, and investment incentives, why excessive government regulation disproportionately harms small businesses, and how America compares to other economies around the world.
They also dive into the latest jobs data, productivity gains driven by AI, and the long-term risks posed by federal debt and deficits. Plus, Antoni explains why policies that expand economic freedom are essential for higher wages, stronger growth, and improved living standards.
Check out the Economic Report for yourself - https://economicfreedom.heritage.org/

Main Street Matters with Elaine Parker and Alfredo Ortiz explores the intersection of small business and government policy. With more than 90 million Americans either owning or depending on small business for their household income, policies like taxes, regulations, and access to credit have a huge effect on the American Dream. Elaine and Alfredo talk with small business owners, government officials and office holders, and experts about everything from education to the labor market on this interesting and entertaining podcast.

Main Street Matters with Elaine Parker and Alfredo Ortiz explores the intersection of small business and government policy. With more than 90 million Americans either owning or depending on small business for their household income, policies like taxes, regulations, and access to credit have a huge effect on the American Dream. Elaine and Alfredo talk with small business owners, government officials and office holders, and experts about everything from education to the labor market on this interesting and entertaining podcast.

Main Street Matters

On this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker sits down with Heritage Foundation Chief Economist EJ Antoni to break down the key factors behind the U.S. rebound. They discuss the role of deregulation, tax policy, and investment incentives, why excessive government regulation disproportionately harms small businesses, and how America compares to other economies around the world.

America’s Economic Freedom Rebound: Deregulation, Small Business  Growth & What the 2026 Index Reveals

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/ba709931-a0ce-4293-bfee-b40c00c06b86/transcript