The federal government, vain about its successes running businesses (e.g., Amtrak; oh, well), has recently plunged into “industrial policy.” The government of Clayton County, Georgia, also enjoys economic planning.

If its opposition to Khalilah Few succeeds, she, a single mother with a teenage son, will have lost much of her savings, and her opportunity for financial security. She will be collateral damage from her local government’s vision of “smart growth.” She is, however, represented by the libertarian litigators of the Institute for Justice. Clayton County has met its match.

George Will’s email address is georgewill@washpost.com.

Read the full opinion at washingtonpost.com.

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