Letters from an American June 2, 2025
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Jun 3, 2025 In this discussion, a contentious Republican budget bill proposes severe cuts to Medicaid, sparking outrage over healthcare access. The impact of budget cuts on NOAA and NWS raises alarms about public safety during hurricane seasons due to inadequate resources. The dialogue also highlights alarming ignorance within FEMA regarding hurricane season and critiques cuts to NIH that threaten cancer research, showcasing the dangerous blend of politics and scientific integrity.
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Joni Ernst's Controversial Response
- At a town hall, Senator Joni Ernst casually responded "we are all going to die" to concerns about Medicaid cuts.
- Her subsequent apology video worsened the situation and included unexpected religious remarks.
Real Impact of Medicaid Cuts
- The GOP's Medicaid cuts largely target expansion, state financing mechanisms, and coverage access, not waste and fraud.
- The CBO estimates over 10 million Americans will lose health care coverage due to these cuts.
Budget Deficit Reality Check
- The GOP budget will actually increase the federal deficit by $3.8 trillion despite claims it reduces it.
- The CBO, a bipartisan and reliable agency, contradicts Republican claims of large deficit savings.