The Mona Charen Show DOGE'S Bogus Cost Cutting
Mar 10, 2025
Jessica Reidl, a fiscal policy expert from the Manhattan Institute, decodes the illusions behind government budget cuts and the reality of rising national debt. She emphasizes the risks of simplistic economic strategies and critiques past policies that fail to deliver growth. The discussion also highlights demographic shifts impacting the economy and the limited effectiveness of taxing the wealthy as a solution. With forecasts of inflation and budget deficits looming, Reidl urges a fresh look at how we approach fiscal responsibility and economic health.
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Discretionary Spending
- DOGE's budget cuts target discretionary spending, about 30% of the federal budget.
- This portion includes defense, veterans' affairs, and other non-entitlement programs.
Rare Cuts
- Discretionary spending, while adjustable annually, rarely sees actual cuts.
- Even the Budget Control Act of 2011 only slowed its growth.
Republican Budget Cuts
- Republican proposals to cut $880 billion involve entitlements like Medicaid, student loans, and food assistance.
- These cuts offset proposed $4.5 trillion in tax cuts.