Originally published in The Contrarian, this article analyzes the detrimental aspects of former President Donald Trump’s political agenda, as highlighted by Jen Rubin. According to Rubin, Trump’s policies embody a “Dickensian” ethos characterized by cruelty, conspiracy, and a disregard for scientific evidence.
The impact of Trump’s policies extends particularly towards women and LGBTQ communities. Professor Tressie McMillan Cottom explains that Trump’s scapegoating tactics serve to alienate minorities while simultaneously undermining the federal systems that protect them. Cottom asserts, “By giving people a scapegoat… it says not only are women the enemy, but the government is protecting them.” This narrative legitimizes an aggressive attack on governmental agencies and structures.
As discussions around gender rights and democracy continue to unfold, it’s critical to recognize the intertwined nature of these issues, as they form the backbone of broader democratic values.
Spending Policies
In a recent budget resolution aligned with Trump’s previous propositions, House Republicans have passed a plan that will reportedly increase taxes for wealthier individuals while enacting significant spending reductions, including over $880 billion in cuts to Medicaid. Most beneficiaries of Medicaid are women, making these cuts particularly harmful to that demographic. Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Teresa Leger Fernández has underscored the real-life implications, stating, “Women cannot afford the Republican budget.”
Public Health Initiatives
In the realm of public health, the repercussions of administrative decisions are becoming increasingly concerning. Recent reports highlight that Trump’s executive orders have resulted in the loss of vital data from the Centers for Disease Control’s Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System, which has tracked maternal and infant health since 1988. This initiative is crucial for identifying health trends and improving outcomes for mothers and babies.
Educational Restrictions
Recently published guidelines have led to a cessation of certain celebrations, such as Black History Month, within schools operated by the U.S. Department of Defense. Additionally, programming aimed at promoting STEM for girls and Pride clubs for students of military families in overseas locations has been put on hold.
IVF and Reproductive Health
Trump’s recent executive order concerning IVF has drawn scrutiny, with observers labeling it ineffective. The case of Ryleigh Cooper, a 24-year-old who previously supported Trump due to his promises regarding IVF, has gained attention. Following her job loss and subsequent lack of health insurance, she exemplifies the discouraging consequences of this political landscape.
Transgender Rights Legislation
One notable response to Trump’s executive orders restricting transgender athletes from women’s sports has come from Maine Governor Janet Mills, who has vowed to challenge these policies legally. Her defiance includes stating, “See you in court,” after Trump threatened to cut federal funding. Concurrently, in Iowa, a significant step back was taken as Governor Kim Reynolds signed a measure removing gender identity from the state’s civil rights laws, becoming the first state to retract protections for this group.
Actionable Resources
For those looking to engage or stay informed, several resources are invaluable. The Center for Reproductive Rights’ “Repro Red Flags: Agency Watch” details relevant findings concerning government appointees and their legislative impacts on reproductive rights. Another important resource is The 19th’s report on the early developments of Trump’s executive orders.
Community Resistance
A recent community response in Vermont’s Mad River Valley serves as a powerful reminder of activism at a grassroots level. Local snow reporter Lucy Welch addressed the implications of job losses within the U.S. Forest Service, encouraging those in the skiing community to voice their opinions and fight for their shared values. Her invocations demonstrate the critical importance of civic engagement.
Through the continued examination of policies, advocacy efforts, and individual experiences, it becomes clear that preserving rights and upholding the principles of democracy remains a collective responsibility.
