Yes
I do.
No
I don’t.
President Donald Trump has repeatedly praised Republican-led states such as Texas and Florida as examples of the direction he believes America should take.
Texas in particular has received enthusiastic praise from Trump. During remarks earlier this year, the president described the state as representing success while highlighting energy production and economic development. The White House has similarly promoted Texas policies involving energy, taxes, border security and private investment.
The broader debate surrounding states such as Texas and Florida goes well beyond presidential politics.
Supporters point toward lower taxes, business-friendly regulations, population growth and conservative approaches to issues including education, immigration and law enforcement. Both states have also become major destinations for Americans relocating from other parts of the country.
Critics counter that policies successful in one state may not necessarily work everywhere.
America’s 50 states have dramatically different economies, populations, climates and political cultures. Policies appropriate for Texas or Florida could produce different results in states such as New York, California, Michigan or Massachusetts.
There are also disagreements over exactly which policies deserve credit for economic or population growth. State governments influence taxes, regulation and spending, but national economic conditions, housing costs, employment opportunities and demographic changes can also affect where Americans choose to live.
That is part of what makes the issue important.
The American federal system gives states considerable freedom to pursue different approaches. Voters can then compare the results and decide which policies they believe work best.
Trump has made clear that he sees Republican-led states such as Texas and Florida as models worth following. His critics remain far less convinced.
Ultimately, Americans will decide whether those states provide a blueprint for the rest of the nation or whether each state needs its own approach.