The NPR Politics Podcast Making Sense Of Cents: Setting The Federal Budget
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May 5, 2025 Dive into the complexities of federal budgeting as President Trump sets out ambitious goals in a single sweeping bill. The discussion highlights significant budget cuts affecting domestic programs and the clashes within Congress. As members navigate a divided landscape, the strategic use of impoundment to sidestep Congressional spending emerges. Economic pressures, particularly around tariffs and the midterm elections, shape the narrative, revealing the intricate dance of politics and public sentiment amid fiscal challenges.
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Trump's Ideological Skinny Budget
- President Trump's skinny budget prioritizes large cuts to non-defense discretionary spending and increased military and border spending.
- The budget is ideological, frequently referencing terms like "woke" and DEI, reflecting the administration's priorities and cuts to popular domestic programs.
Mixed Republican Reception to Budget
- Republican responses to the budget vary, with some supporting cuts as a mandate and others, like Senator Susan Collins, expressing criticism.
- Congress is focused more on passing President Trump's broader domestic agenda than adopting the harsh cuts in the budget proposal.
Internal GOP Conflict Over Medicaid Cuts
- The budget reconciliation bill aims to extend Trump's 2017 tax cuts but faces internal conflict over proposed Medicaid cuts.
- Republicans face criticism from Democrats and vulnerable representatives for potential major reductions in Medicaid funding.