Part 12/16:
Evolving Welfare and Social Policy
A significant portion focuses on recent reforms to the SNAP program under the Trump administration, which raised work requirements and age thresholds. While these measures aim to curb fraud and dependence, critics question their efficacy, noting that only a small percentage of recipients would be affected over ten years, suggesting a superficial change.
The debate highlights the political motives behind social welfare policies; some believe that cutting benefits could impact votes, especially among traditional Democratic voting blocks. The discussion underscores the deep-rooted nature of entitlement programs, systemic inefficiencies, and the political calculus involved in welfare reform.