This panel examines structural barriers preventing young men from thriving economically and explores practical solutions including expanding access to skilled trades, strengthening education-to-employment pathways, removing barriers to entrepreneurship, and addressing regional disparities. Discussion will focus on how economic insecurity intersects with broader challenges including mental health and community belonging, while identifying practical policies that restore economic hope and independence.
Speakers:
- Sen. John Cornyn, State of Texas
- Dr. William Beach, former Commissioner of the Bureau of Labor Statistics (Trump and Biden Administrations)
- Dr. Nicholas Eberstadt, American Enterprise Institute
- Patrick Bourke, American Institute for Boys and Men
Moderator:
Kate Odell, Wall Street Journal
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This panel discussion was featured in The Lafayette Company’s first-ever Symposium on Young American Men, held on November 3, 2025.
William W. Beach is the Executive Director of the Fiscal Lab on Capitol Hill




