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The Case for Public Electricity (with Ryan C. Smith) episode artwork

Feb 21, 2026 54 min

The Case for Public Electricity (with Ryan C. Smith)

from Neon Liberalism Hosted by Liberal Currents

Samantha Hancox-Li and guest Ryan C. Smith, author and economic historian, discuss the possibility of publicly-owned electric utilities in America. Smith argues that there is a strong case for public power. Electricity distribution is a "natural monopoly," and existing private companies—like Pacific Gas and Electric—are often inefficient and incompetent. Meanwhile, Nebraska and other states already include some publicly-owned power companies, which provide affordable and reliable electricity. Is it time to switch to a new model of power?

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The Case for Public Electricity (with Ryan C. Smith)

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This episode was published on February 21, 2026.

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