Billions for ICE, Cuts for the Poor: Trump’s Bill Redefines Federal Priorities

July 10, 2025

Donald Trump's proposed spending measure, dubbed the "One Big Ugly Bill" by Democrats, aims to drastically cut social safety net programs while creating an unprecedented immigration enforcement system. The legislation includes approximately $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act over ten years, potentially affecting millions of low-income Americans' healthcare coverage. Simultaneously, it allocates over $150 billion to expand ICE operations, with the detention budget projected to increase from $3.

Who is affected

Low-income Americans who rely on Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act
Immigrants, particularly those without criminal records
Black communities across the country
American voters and citizens whose personal data would be included in the new federal citizenship registry
Privacy advocates concerned about government surveillance

What action is being taken

ICE is currently arresting immigrants without criminal records at rates that have surged by more than 1,400% in the past year
ICE is deploying masked officers and National Guard troops in workplace and community raids
The Florida Republican Party is selling "Alligator Alcatraz" merchandise
Nevada Democratic Rep. Steven Horsford is speaking out against the legislation

Why it matters

The bill would dramatically reduce healthcare coverage for millions of low-income Americans
It would create the most expansive immigration enforcement system in U.S. history
The proposed citizenship registry would represent unprecedented integration of federal agencies handling sensitive personal data
The bill's approach to immigration enforcement has been criticized for using dehumanizing language and tactics reminiscent of historical oppression
The legislation reveals deep partisan divides, with Republicans overwhelmingly supporting Trump's immigration policies while Democrats strongly oppose them

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint