The credibility revolution in applied microeconomics research has led to sharp improvements in the identification of causal relationships, but risks leading the field toward interesting designs rather than interesting questions. In this work, I use credible identification strategies like random assignment and regression discontinuity designs to answer important questions in labor and public economics with a special focus on the intersection of inequity, higher education, and political economy. Chapter 1 shows that means-testing institution-specific merit scholarships can enhance equity and efficiency, with benefits accruing to colleges and students alike. Chapter 2 demonstrates that when the Appalachian Regional Commission designated the poorest decile of counties as economically distressed, voters were more likely to support Democratic candidates for US President and the US House of Representatives. Chapter 3 illustrates that conferring an admissions advantage to UC applicants in the top four percent of their high school class reduced the share of students who eventually registered to vote as Republicans and increased independent or Democratic registration, primary voting, and Democratic presidential primary turnout.