Annie Lowrey
Annie Lowrey, a staff writer for *The Atlantic*, will appear at Sixth & I for a conversation about her latest book, *The Time Tax: How the Government Wastes Our Time—and How to Fix It*. Joined by her husband, Ezra Klein—a *New York Times* columnist, podcast host, and co-author of *Abundance*—Lowrey will explore the concept of the "time tax": the administrative burdens, paperwork, and bureaucratic hurdles that citizens must navigate to access government services such as taxes, financial aid, housing assistance, unemployment benefits, disability support, and Medicaid. In her book, Lowrey traces the history of these burdens back to the Civil War era, arguing they were deliberately designed as tools of discrimination and have worsened inequality, entrenched poverty, and eroded public trust. She also offers a practical guide for reforming the system and reclaiming citizens' time. The evening promises a deep dive into public administration, civic life, and the hidden costs of government inefficiency.
When: Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 7:00 pm ET. Doors open at 6:00 pm.
Showtimes: The event starts promptly at 7:00 pm ET; no additional showtimes are listed.
Tickets: In-person general admission tickets are $22.50, with a $5 increase the day before the event. A ticket plus a signed copy of *The Time Tax* is $35. Limited premium seating options are available at select giving levels. Virtual tickets are $12, and a virtual ticket with a signed book is $40. Additional fees apply to all purchases. Tickets can be purchased online.
Lineup: Annie Lowrey (author) in conversation with Ezra Klein (journalist, *New York Times* columnist, podcast host).
Run time: Not specified, but the event is scheduled for 7:00 pm ET with no listed end time; typical book events run 60–90 minutes.
Ages: Not specified; likely all ages unless noted otherwise by the venue.
Venue: Sixth & I Historic Synagogue, offering both in-person and virtual attendance. In-person seating is general admission. Doors open at 6:00 pm.
Note: The book *The Time Tax* was published in 2024. Lowrey is also the author of *Give People Money* (2018). Ezra Klein's book *Abundance* (co-authored with Derek Thompson) was released in 2025.