The **American Enterprise Institute (AEI)** is a prominent, independent public policy think tank based in Washington, D.C., founded in 1938 with the mission to promote free enterprise, limited government, and individual liberty through rigorous research and scholarship[1][4][6]. Initially named the American Enterprise Association, it adopted the AEI name in 1962 and has since played a central role in shaping conservative economic and social policies in the United States[2][4]. AEI is dedicated to advancing understanding of the social and economic benefits of a free, competitive system and focuses on a broad range of policy areas including the economy, U.S. foreign policy, defense, education, and social welfare[1][6]. AEI’s scholars include leading economists, political scientists, and foreign policy experts who produce influential research, policy analysis, and commentary. Notable figures associated with AEI have included Nobel laureate economist Milton Friedman, neoconservative intellectual Irving Kristol, and former U.S. President Gerald Ford, highlighting the institution's role as a hub for conservative intellectual thought[2]. Under CEO Arthur Brooks (2008–2019), AEI gained significant influence, often regarded as the dominant conservative think tank, surpassing peers like the Heritage Foundation[3]. The institute is funded by a combination of corporate, foundation, and individual donations, and is governed by a board of trustees to maintain its independence and nonpartisan stance, although its policy orientation is clearly conservative[1][3]. AEI has historically influenced major U.S. policy initiatives, including during the George W. Bush administration, particularly in advocating for free-market reforms and neoconservative foreign policies[3]. Despite its successes, AEI has faced organizational challenges, including financial crises and management issues that threatened its stability, but strategic leadership decisions helped preserve its status as a leading voice in conservative policy research[5]. Today, AEI continues to contribute to business and technology discourse by analyzing economic policy, innovation, and
#trump #e.j. antoni #bureau of labor statistics #controversy #economic data
President Trump's nomination of E.J. Antoni as the new Bureau of Labor Statistics commissioner has caused controversy and raised concerns about the politicization of economic data.