It's easy to criticize the Democrats’ economic policies now that they have had a few years in power and passed several big bills, but also because they've articulated a clear economic vision for the country: expanding the government’s role in the economy with more generous social programs, higher taxes for the very wealthy and industrial policy that supports favored industries. They promise a more equal economy carefully managed by wise bureaucrats and labor unions.
Even if you don’t like the Democrats’ economic philosophy, it's at least coherent. Republicans don't have such a clear vision, and in many ways that’s worse than having policies you disagree with.
We do know what Republicans used to stand for: limited government, which meant lower taxes and less regulation and spending. Even though the party's policies didn't always follow those principles — there were forays into protectionism and high deficits — there was at least a free-market ideal and a belief in individual initiative. While you'll still hear some lip service to the old ideals, it's a mystery how Republicans intend to fix a low-growth, high-inflation economy. Adding to the confusion, some Republicans have begun questioning free markets.
