The Roundabout: Federal policies, jobs, healthcare and the economy

As the federal government shutdown rolls into its fourth week, paychecks for federal employees have halted.

At the local level, many are wondering how federal policies will impact their day-to-day lives. The Nashville job sector has remained stable for the past year, but as the manufacturing industry in Tennessee remains among the most vulnerable to tariffs, the future cost of production becomes less clear. Additionally, health insurance premiums for those who rely on Obamacare may cost up to twice as much in 2026 if Congress doesn’t reach a deal. For our weekly Roundabout edition of This Is Nashville, we have invited a reporter, an economist, and a public policy advocate to speak on these issues. Call in with your question or comment at 615-760-2000 — or watch live on YouTube and pop your comments into chat.

This episode was produced by Josh Deepan and Mary Mancini. 

Guests

• Molly Davis, Reporter, The Tennessean
• Kara Smith, PhD, Belmont University Professor of Economics
• Mandy Spears, Executive Vice President, The Sycamore Institute