Letters from an American February 12, 2025
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Feb 13, 2025 Government priorities shift as nutrition program cuts are proposed while tax breaks for the wealthy take center stage. The changing U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding NATO and Ukraine, raises eyebrows about national security. An executive order by Trump gives Elon Musk oversight of government operations, sparking debates on accountability. Plus, the effects of budget cuts on businesses and households highlight concerns over inflation and funding struggles, with Musk benefiting from reduced regulation.
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Trump Empowers Musk via Executive Order
- Trump signed an executive order giving Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGIE) control over U.S. government hiring and firing.
- This order effectively makes Musk an independent actor whose actions Trump approves retroactively.
Musk Benefits from Government Cuts
- Trump claims Musk found billions in government waste, but no evidence has been provided.
- The primary beneficiary of government cuts seems to be Musk himself, as agencies scrutinizing his businesses have been eliminated.
Government Funding Debate
- Republicans, led by House Speaker Mike Johnson, aim to pass a continuing resolution to fund the government.
- Representative Jared Moskowitz argues that if waste exists, Congress should scrutinize each appropriations bill individually.