Associate Director, Rutgers University's Eagleton Institute of Politics
Associate Director of the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers University
PROFILE
John Weingart
Guest
FROM John Weingart
Which Way, L.A.?
Should States Declare Bankruptcy? The federal deficit is disturbing, but Washington can print money. The states have to balance their budgets, and the total of shortfalls around the country is at $82 billion. Nobody wants to raise taxes, and even massive cuts aren't likely to make up the differences. As we've just heard, bankruptcy has been suggested.
To the Point
Should States Declare Bankruptcy? The federal deficit is disturbing, but Washington can print money. The states have to balance their budgets, and the total of shortfalls around the country adds up to $82 billion. Nobody wants to raise taxes and even massive cuts, which threaten the sick, public schools and infrastructure, aren't likely to make up the differences. What about bankruptcy? Currently it's against the law, and even talking out loud might disrupt the municipal bond market. Forget about any federal bailout. The conservative movement sees a chance to shrink government once and for all. We hear which states are the worst off and how their decisions might shape the United States for years to come.
Recommended
To the Point
Trump's new look at civil rights and global warming President Trump is reportedly ready to pull the US out of the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. We look at the possible consequences. On the second half of the program, we hear about cuts in Obama-Era civil rights programs called for by the Trump Administration's first budget plan.
To the Point
White House budget proposal slashes and burns President Trump's first budget request is considered dead on arrival in Congress — a familiar development in Capitol Hill. We hear what it reveals about the priorities of the new administration. What's likely to die… and what might survive?
To the Point
Replacing Obamacare: Now you see it… now you don’t As the Senate deliberates replacing Obmacare, health coverage for millions of people is at stake. There've been no public hearings, and a draft measure won't be made public. Is the House version so unpopular that that Senate is hiding a version that looks much the same?
To the Point
Will the Senate write a healthcare bill in secret? While Democrats and Republicans argue White House relations with Russia, another question is being decided behind closed doors: who gets help buying health insurance and who doesn't? We hear how the pros and cons are being shrouded in secrecy.