1A 'If You Can Keep It': The Math Behind The 'Big, Beautiful' Spending Bill
21 snips
May 5, 2025 
In this discussion, Jonathan Cohn, a senior correspondent at The Bulwark, and Joan Alker, executive director at Georgetown's Center for Children and Families, delve into the contentious budget cuts proposed by Congress. They explore the implications of a potential $1.5 trillion reduction, particularly how it may affect Medicaid, which supports over 70 million Americans. Personal stories reveal the fears surrounding healthcare accessibility for vulnerable populations. The hosts also dissect the intricate politics at play as Congress navigates its fiscal challenges.
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Medicaid Cuts Are Central Challenge
- Extending tax cuts reduces federal revenue, necessitating $1.5 trillion in spending cuts.
- Medicaid is a major sticking point because cuts there impact 70 million people relying on it.
Medicaid Is A Lifeline for Many
- Christine relies on Medicaid for chronic illness medication and her son's care after losing her job.
- Threats to Medicaid funding cause her significant fear about their survival and health.
Trump Budget Deeply Cuts Domestic Programs
- Trump's budget proposes historic cuts to domestic programs while boosting defense spending by 13%.
- Cuts would reduce domestic spending to below year 2000 levels when adjusted for inflation.