Charlottesville, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – In a recent interview, Dr. Edwin T. Burton, an economics professor at the University of Virginia, shared his insights on the economy, national debt, and healthcare, highlighting his concerns about the escalating national debt, which has surpassed $35 trillion. He argues that this issue is pressing and remains largely overlooked by both political parties, stating, “Neither political party really cares.” Dr. Burton emphasized the implications of this growing debt on rising interest rates, which have surged following recent actions taken by the Federal Reserve.  

Dr. Burton also discussed the challenges facing the healthcare system, advocating for more efficient reforms. He asserted, “We need a much more rational healthcare system… free market and competition is a better way than huge government bureaucracy.” He emphasized the necessity for reform by noting that “we spend probably three times as much as we need to on healthcare, and we don’t get the results.” Dr. Burton called for a healthcare model that integrates market principles while ensuring support for those in need, highlighting that the current bureaucratic system often falls short in aiding the most vulnerable populations. 

Listen here for the full conversation: