Is punishing the poor Trump’s last hand to play?
The pre-midterm defenestration of ACA enrollees looks like political madness – but the president appears to believe hitting poor people might work for him There is a manic quality to Donald Trump ’s desperate dash to do something, anything, ahead of November’s midterm elections to convince beleaguered Americans that he can make the pressures his policies have imposed on their livelihoods go away.…
The recent purge of ACA enrollees seems like an act of political madness, but President Trump seems convinced that punishing the poor could help him win re-election. There is a manic quality to Donald Trump's frantic efforts to do something, anything, before the midterm elections to convince Americans that his policies are alleviating the hardships they face.
First, Trump offered to lower barriers to beef imports to alleviate soaring meat prices. However, he later backed off under pressure from the beef lobby. Next, he proposed halting diesel exports, but oil companies showed no interest. He also weakened fuel efficiency standards, arguing that it would lower the cost of a new car, although he failed to mention the increased spending on gas it would entail.
In early October, Trump began sending $500 checks to nearly a million people promoting his healthcare "wins." Additionally, he promised adult Americans a $5,000 check if Republicans retain control of Congress – a promise that appears unlikely to materialize.
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- Is punishing the poor Trump’s last hand to play? theguardian.com
- Trump says he could be 'last Republican president' thehill.com
