The Greater North Dakota Chamber (GNDC) has announced that economist and author Norbert J. Michel will be the keynote speaker at its upcoming Policy Summit, scheduled for September 23, 2025, in Bismarck. Michel is known for his recent book, “Crushing Capitalism: How Populist Policies Are Threatening the American Dream.”
Michel’s keynote address will focus on arguments from his book, challenging current political narratives that blame free trade, immigration, and technology for the decline of the American Dream. He asserts that economic prosperity has actually increased across income levels and warns that populist policies could threaten freedoms essential to growth.
“Have you heard this narrative? The middle class has been hollowed out because of an overreliance on free markets. Americans can’t compete with low-cost labor and imports, so all the good jobs in America have disappeared. It’s a dismal argument that many politicians, even some on the right, have spent the past few years spinning,” stated Michel. “The problem with this bleak story is that it is completely wrong,”
After his speech, Michel will participate in a book signing at the ND Chamber PAC Social event.
“Norbert brings facts, clarity, and historical perspective to today’s most heated policy debates,” said Arik Spencer, GNDC President & CEO. “We are excited to feature him at Policy Summit and offer our attendees a chance to hear insights on the future of the American economy.”
The GNDC Policy Summit is described as North Dakota’s main business policy gathering. It attracts leaders from various sectors to discuss important state issues.
Registration for the summit is open to both members and non-members. Additional details and registration information can be found at https://ndchamber.com/policysummit.
