Make Me Smart Let the vote-a-rama begin!
Jun 30, 2025
The discussion heats up around the GOP’s budget bill as the Senate prepares for a vote-a-rama, revealing the tricky ways numbers are manipulated. Amidst this, Gen Z shines by outpacing millennials in retirement savings. An incredible story emerges of a dad heroically diving into the sea to rescue his daughter from overboard during a Disney cruise. Lastly, the episode explores the magical connection between music and memory, showcasing how memory choirs can aid those with dementia.
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Budget Baseline Gimmick Explained
- The Senate is using a current policy baseline to price the GOP reconciliation bill, drastically lowering its apparent cost on paper.
- This gimmick allows the legislation to meet reconciliation rules while disguising its true fiscal impact.
Political Impact of Medicaid Cuts
- Senator Tom Tillis opposes the GOP bill for its severe Medicaid cuts and their political risk.
- His decision not to seek reelection may improve Democrats' chance to flip his North Carolina seat.
Where GOP Bill Cuts Deepest
- The Senate GOP bill's biggest savings come from deep cuts to Medicaid, green energy, student loans, and food benefits.
- Despite detailed breakdowns, these cuts don't fully offset the cost of tax cut extensions, relying on budgetary maneuvers.