Illinois Democrats Vow to Push Back on Trump Administration Cuts to Programs, Staff
Lawmakers Say Cuts to Social Safety Programs Are Linked to $4.5 Trillion Tax Breaks for Corporations
Members of Illinois’ Democratic delegation in Congress gathered at the AIDS Foundation of Chicago to rail against Trump administration cuts to the federal government. The foundation, which receives 84% of its $41 million budget from federal funds, is just one of many organizations affected by the cuts.
Thousands of Federal Workers Terminated, Programs Halted or Slashed
Since Donald Trump’s inauguration, the Department of Government Efficiency, led by billionaire Elon Musk, has fired thousands of federal workers and either slashed or halted funding for various programs. The most recent cut was the termination of hundreds of employees at the Federal Aviation Administration, making headlines just before the delegation’s press conference.
Sen. Dick Durbin Condemns Administration’s Actions
“What is the plan? Why are they doing all this? If it’s to create a fund to give tax breaks to the wealthiest people in the United States, say it. At least let us know what you’re doing here,” said Sen. Dick Durbin.
Cuts to Social Safety Programs Directly Linked to Tax Breaks for Corporations
The lawmakers argue that cuts to programs such as Medicaid, housing assistance, and food safety are directly related to the administration’s plan to give $4.5 trillion in tax breaks to corporations at the expense of lower-income and middle-class Americans.
Impact of Cuts Felt Across the Country
While challenges to funding cuts make their way through the courts, their impact is being felt in Chicago and across the country, from school districts to non-profits that provide healthcare and other services. “These services are critical for every day citizens,” said Erica Bland with SEIU Healthcare.
Personal Stories of Impact
Dan Montgomery, president and chief operating officer of the Illinois Federation of Teachers, shared a personal story about his mother’s experience with Social Security. “In her old age, she lived almost entirely on Social Security. She didn’t have a lot of money when she died at home with dignity, in her house in her bed. It was with hospice paid for by Medicare. That situation is repeated by millions of people in this country. That’s what’s at risk,” he said.
Conclusion
Illinois Democrats vow to push back against the Trump administration’s cuts to programs and staff, citing the devastating impact on everyday Americans. The lawmakers argue that the cuts are a direct result of the administration’s plan to give $4.5 trillion in tax breaks to corporations, and they will continue to fight against these moves.
FAQs
* What is the Trump administration’s plan to give $4.5 trillion in tax breaks to corporations?
* How will this impact social safety programs such as Medicaid, housing assistance, and food safety?
* What is the impact of these cuts on non-profits and organizations that provide healthcare and other services?
* How can the public get involved in the fight against these cuts?
