I know that many of you in SA Land are inherently suspicious of economics (having, as it does, only a limited impact on abortion), but some of us think it’s kind of important. If you are part of this group, I ask your indulgence.

The Heritage Foundation has recently released a brilliant, easy to digest issue backgrounder that reminds us that government does not create jobs or wealth, nor can it provide stimulus to the economy. It can only shift money from productive areas to less-productive areas, which inhibits economic growth. I think this is a must read piece and a reminder that, mandate or no, the Democrats are destined to repeat the failures of the past (with the help of some Republicans).

Bonus: The article also explains why Bush’s “tax rebates” in 2001 were a bad idea.

The Texas Public Policy Foundation has just released a study comparing the economic environments of the big boys, Texas and California. I would make a big deal out of it, but I don’t see anyone being all that surprised to find out that, per capita, Texas has lower taxes, less regulation, less government spending, and faster income and population growth than its Left Coast rival. The TPPF determined that Texas is better suited to handle economic downturns in the general economy and is generally better able to avoid fiscal crises. I suspect Gov. Schwarzenegger has already figured that out.

Today’s must read, courtesy of Ramesh Ponnuru and Robert Stein.