In a spirited panel discussion, New Journey PAC CEO Autry J. Pruitt laid out a bold, unapologetic defense of job creation through free-market capitalism—arguing that President Biden’s policies are directly harming Black Americans. At the center of the conversation: rising Black unemployment amid a broader economic recovery.
Pruitt pointed to the Biden administration’s decision to cancel projects like the Keystone Pipeline as a clear example of “purposefully eliminating jobs in sectors where many Black Americans actually work.” He framed the issue not as a matter of systemic racism or automation, but of policy-driven destruction of opportunity.
“We don’t need government handouts—we need government to get out of the way,” Pruitt said. “Private business creates jobs. Period.”
Fellow panelist Robert Patillo offered a counterpoint, emphasizing systemic inequities, automation, and the need for targeted stimulus and investment in green energy. However, Pruitt countered that green jobs are still aspirational—not immediate solutions—and warned that increasing the minimum wage will force more businesses to automate or close, further harming low-income workers.
Free Markets vs. Federal Fixes
Pruitt advocated for deregulation, lower taxes, and the elimination of bureaucratic overreach. He argued that the economic gains under the Trump administration—especially for Black Americans—were driven by pro-business policies that allowed industries to flourish without interference.
On green energy, Pruitt was skeptical: “Let it compete in the free market. If it wins, it wins. But don’t destroy current jobs for a fantasy.”
Final Word: Real Jobs, Real Freedom
As the debate concluded, both panelists agreed that jobs are critical—but disagreed on who should create them. For Pruitt, the answer is clear: “Empower business. Respect the dignity of work. And let Americans—Black Americans included—earn, grow, and thrive on their own terms.”
