The R Street Institute has released a list of its most-read research and commentary pieces from the first half of 2025, covering a range of policy areas. The institute’s work focuses on principles such as individual liberty, free markets, rule of law, equal treatment, and limited government.
One highlighted study by Logan Seacrest and Jillian Snider examines the recruitment and retention crisis in U.S. law enforcement. The authors analyze historical, social, and economic factors behind staffing shortages and propose strategies for agencies to strengthen their workforce.
In the area of cybersecurity, Haiman Wong discusses how recent advances by DeepSeek challenge the United States’ leadership in artificial intelligence. Wong suggests that these developments should prompt action and collaboration rather than panic or hasty regulation.
Chris Villareal, Kent Chandler, and Michael Giberson explore electricity competition in the United States. They note that while some states allow all customers to choose their electricity provider, others use hybrid models with varying degrees of choice. The authors emphasize that consumer awareness and ongoing support for choice are essential to healthy competition in retail energy markets.
Caroline Melear analyzes the Trump administration’s approach to deregulation. She argues that rapid executive action is necessary to achieve ambitious goals but warns about potential risks if future congressional shifts limit these efforts. Melear also raises concerns about overuse of executive authority undermining checks and balances.
Matt Germer reviews the SAVE Act ahead of upcoming elections. He points out that while the bill faces implementation challenges, it does not aim to disenfranchise women or those who have changed their names legally. Instead, it offers a process for resolving documentation issues.
Stacey McKenna and Courtney Joslin focus on parental substance use as a leading cause for children entering foster care. Their analysis includes a 50-state review of child welfare laws related to medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) during pregnancy. They recommend reforms to prevent punishment for pregnant individuals using MOUDs under medical supervision.
Jacob Bastian assesses design options for President Trump’s proposed $5,000 Child Tax Credit (CTC). He finds that universally available benefits would most effectively reduce child poverty but at higher fiscal cost. Bastian highlights trade-offs between equity, efficiency, work incentives, and cost in shaping CTC policy.
Adam Thierer comments on U.S. leadership in AI innovation amid global competition from countries like China. He cites statements by Vance supporting continued American leadership as an important message to international partners.
Executive Director Erica Schoder reflects on her conversation with Lenore Skenazy about childhood development’s impact on society. Schoder concludes that fostering trust and responsibility from an early age is key to building democratic values in future generations.
The institute also encourages readers to view a live interview with Jonah Goldberg from its 2025 Real Solutions Summit.
