CNBC Television
'Secretive' donor circle: 1789 Capital founder Chris Buskirk on the future of the MAGA movement
11/5/2025, 1:33:02 PM
Economic Summary
- The New York mayoral result is interpreted as evidence the Democratic Party is moving left, which could hurt them in swing states like Michigan, Wisconsin, and Arizona.
- Virginia results show candidate quality matters: Winsome Sears' lack of alignment with the base reduced turnout, demonstrating the GOP/MAGA need motivating candidates to win working-class voters.
- Policy prescription from the guest favors an innovation economy over higher taxation; he argues investing in technologies and founders (AI stack, chips, energy, space, defense, tech) is the primary path to broad-based prosperity.
- Oren Cass' 'Cost of Thriving Index' is cited as a useful target for restoring middle-class life; the last time a single median income could support that ideal was ~1989, implying structural economic changes are needed.
Bullish
- Innovation-led investment (AI, chips, energy, defense, space) can expand prosperity.
- Candidate quality (e.g., J.D. Vance) can motivate the MAGA base and improve outcomes.
- Focusing capital on top founders and technologies grows the economic pie.
Bearish
- Democratic shift toward the radical left/Marxism may alienate swing-state voters.
- Raising corporate taxes will reduce investment and slow economic growth.
- Wealthy residents leaving New York City will accelerate urban decline and harm those who can't leave.
People mentioned
Chris BuskirkJ.D. VanceOren CassDonald Trump Jr.Donald TrumpWinsome SearsOmid MalikJoe