Published Research

In-depth and informed data from our experts

Tax increase ballot measures: How to increase voter participation

This study argues that tax increase ballot measures should be considered during November general elections rather than low-turnout special elections to ensure broader voter participation. Evidence from states such as California and Idaho suggests that consolidating elections can significantly increase turnout and improve civic engagement, especially on issues that directly affect taxpayers.

Read the full study here.

Past Election Analysis

Sawtooth Leadership Academy Studies

The Blog at MSPC

Hands opening a brown wallet with U.S. dollar bills inside against a teal shirt background.

Washington’s I-645: Repealing the new 9.9% income tax with a current statutory million-dollar exemption

By adopting I-645, voters would have the opportunity to restore the state’s “competitive advantage” of no personal income taxes while working to increase faith in Washington’s business climate.

22h3 min read

Sign on a wooden door reads NO TAXPAYERS ALLOWED, with a red prohibition symbol over a person icon and a metal handle.

Taxpayer money for government employee compensation demands real transparency

Open collective bargaining should be the default when government officials are negotiating public services and government salaries with taxpayer dollars. Especially when those dollars are already stretched thin.

5d4 min read

The only thing we have to fear is government AI intervention itself

Government should protect individual rights and hold people responsible when they cause actual harm. But punishing harmful conduct is different from controlling the underlying technology.

6d4 min read

Judge’s gavel on a desk in foreground, with blurred robed figure holding a book and gold scales of justice in the background.

Wyoming Supreme Court mostly stays in its lane on education policy

The people elect members of the state house and senate to represent their will. This decision allows the legislature to exercise its proper authority over how the K-12 public school system should be financed and the policies it should use to achieve lasting student success.

7d2 min read

Color-coded U.S. map showing state rankings, with green to red legend labeled RANKS 1–10 to 41–51 on the right.

Which state leads the way for educational freedom?

In 2025 alone, Idaho, Wyoming, Tennessee, Texas, and other states created or significantly expanded private education-choice programs.

Sep 213 min read

Technician in tool belt holding a red cordless drill in a bright room with wood floor and blurred furniture background.

Taking the next steps to grow Montana’s workforce

Montana’s economy has momentum. Smart workforce and tax policies can help ensure that momentum becomes a lasting opportunity.

Sep 213 min read

New Study: It's time to let nuclear energy meet our region's power needs

Electricity consumption could grow 300% over the next decade, while overall U.S. electricity demand is expected to increase by about 3.5% annually through 2040. The study warns that without additional dependable generation, parts of the country could face shortages of dispatchable power during peak summer demand hours by 2030.

Sep 182 min read

Fact check: Washington has an income tax - why won’t the media call it one?

Supporters are free to make their case. They can argue that only a small percentage of Washingtonians will pay the tax. They can argue that its revenue is necessary to pay for government services and tax reductions elsewhere. But the media has a different job. It shouldn't make the branding decision for voters.

Sep 173 min read

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