The Liberty Score is a rating system assessing how closely an individual’s views align with core Libertarian principles. Scores are based on a 0-100 scale, with 100 representing a fully Libertarian position and 0 representing complete opposition to Libertarian values. The grading criteria include:

  1. Personal Freedom (25 points): Support for individual rights in personal choices, including medical freedom, privacy, and bodily autonomy.
  2. Economic Freedom (25 points): Advocacy for a free-market economy, low taxation, and minimal government interference in business.
  3. Limited Government (25 points): Commitment to reducing the size and scope of government, limiting regulatory power, and upholding states’ rights.
  4. Non-Intervention (25 points): Opposition to unnecessary foreign entanglements, support for a non-interventionist foreign policy, and minimal military presence abroad.

Each category will be scored, then averaged to form the individual’s overall Liberty Score, providing a clear snapshot of their alignment with Libertarian ideals. Grades are provided by AI

Scott Bessent

Secretary of the Treasury
Status: Confirmed by Campaign
Liberty Score: 60
Warhawk Status: Neutral

Liberty Score Assessment:

  • Personal Freedom (15/25): Scott Bessent has demonstrated support for individual liberties, particularly in advocating for free-market principles and minimal government intervention in personal financial decisions. However, his support for certain regulatory measures within the financial sector suggests a balanced approach between personal freedom and economic stability.

  • Economic Freedom (20/25): As a seasoned investor and founder of Key Square Capital Management, Bessent has consistently promoted free-market policies and reduced government intervention in the economy. His emphasis on the importance of a strong dollar and opposition to weakening the currency align with Libertarian economic values.

  • Limited Government (15/25): While advocating for economic freedom, Bessent’s support for certain regulatory measures and government interventions, such as tariffs, suggests a nuanced view on the size and role of government. His involvement in advising on economic policies indicates a willingness to engage with government programs when beneficial.

  • Non-Intervention (10/25): Bessent’s public positions on foreign policy and military intervention are limited. His focus has primarily been on domestic economic policies, making it difficult to assess his alignment with non-interventionist principles.

Bio:

Scott Bessent, a seasoned investor and hedge fund manager, has been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as Secretary of the Treasury. Bessent is the founder and CEO of Key Square Group, a global macro investment firm. He previously served as Chief Investment Officer at Soros Fund Management, overseeing significant investment strategies. Bessent has been a major fundraiser and donor for Donald Trump, acting as a top economic advisor and fundraiser during Trump’s campaigns.

His extensive experience in finance and close association with Trump’s economic policies position him to lead the Treasury Department effectively.

Career Highlights:

  • Founder and CEO of Key Square Group: Established a global macro investment firm focusing on macroeconomic trends.
  • Chief Investment Officer at Soros Fund Management: Managed investment strategies for the $30 billion family office of billionaire George Soros.
  • Economic Advisor to Donald Trump: Provided economic insights and support during Trump’s presidential campaigns.
  • Philanthropy and Education: Served as an adjunct professor of economic history at Yale University and contributed to various philanthropic initiatives.

About the Secretary of the Treasury Role:

The Secretary of the Treasury oversees the U.S. Department of the Treasury, responsible for formulating and implementing economic and fiscal policies, managing government revenue, and overseeing financial institutions. This role involves managing the nation’s finances, including the issuance of currency, collection of taxes, and management of public debt. Bessent’s extensive background in finance and investment, along with his alignment with Trump’s economic policies, suggest a focus on tax reform, deregulation, and initiatives aimed at boosting economic growth.