The Logoff is a day by day e-newsletter that helps you keep knowledgeable about the Trump administration with out letting political information take over your life. Subscribe right here.
Welcome to The Logoff. Today I’m centered on Donald Trump’s blended messages on the destiny of Medicaid, the low-income medical insurance program that greater than 70 million Americans depend upon.
Trump says lots of issues. Why does this matter now? Because House Republicans handed a invoice on Tuesday that requires $2 trillion in spending cuts over 10 years. The invoice asks the committee that oversees Medicaid and Medicare to establish $880 billion in financial savings. Given that Medicare (well being take care of seniors) is politically untouchable, that seems like a name for steep cuts to Medicaid.
Why concentrate on “fraud”? Republicans have been reluctant to suggest structural adjustments to Medicaid, because it’s unpopular to remove medical insurance from individuals who want it — notably whereas cutting taxes for the rich. Instead, Trump and different high GOP officers have pledged to root out “fraud.” That’s extra politically palatable, however the math doesn’t work. There’s merely not sufficient fraud within the system to get wherever close to the scope of financial savings Republicans are searching for.
What’s subsequent? Are Medicaid cuts coming? It’s means too quickly to know. This House invoice solely units general numbers for tax and spending cuts. GOP lawmakers nonetheless need to craft a separate invoice that lays out what particular packages ought to get reduce. If Medicaid cuts make it into that invoice, then it’s an indication this system is on the chopping block.
But even then, it wouldn’t make sure that the cuts would ever turn out to be regulation. Republicans have solely a tiny majority within the House; they’ve to search out one thing principally their total caucus can agree on. In brief, if even a handful of Republicans balk at cutting Medicaid, the low-income medical insurance program may emerge unscathed.
And with that, it’s time to log out …
It’s 62 levels proper now in DC, so when you’re there, I can not suggest something on-line that’s going to match the psychic worth of going outdoors. If the climate just isn’t as good the place you’re, my heartfelt condolences. As a comfort prize, right here’s a stunning essay about, properly, being at peace with your self, imperfect although all of us are. Take excellent care in the present day. See you again right here tomorrow.