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Rent Control: A Policy Failure Hurting Renters Nationwide

12/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Washington Post editorial board calls rent control a "textbook policy failure" harming renters.
It highlights St. Paul and Minneapolis, noting St. Paul’s permits fell 79% and rents rose, while Minneapolis pursued supply increases.
The editorial argues rent controls discourage landlord investment and raise initial rents.
It cites outcomes in New York City and Scotland, and Argentina where rents fell 40% after controls ended.

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Story summary

The Washington Post editorial board calls rent control a "textbook policy failure" harming renters.
It highlights St. Paul and Minneapolis, noting St. Paul’s permits fell 79% and rents rose, while Minneapolis pursued supply increases.
The editorial argues rent controls discourage landlord investment and raise initial rents.
It cites outcomes in New York City and Scotland, and Argentina where rents fell 40% after controls ended.