Officials meet in Santa Clara to discuss impacts of federal budget
cbsnews.com -- Saturday, August 16, 2025, 8:52:38 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Democratic Party Responses, Immigration Policy & Border Issues
The Trump administration is changing the way government operates at a breakneck speed, and many in local governments are struggling to even understand where it all may be going.
On Saturday, state, local and federal lawmakers met at the Santa Clara County government center for a community meeting to talk about the coming impacts of the "big, beautiful bill."
Santa Clara County has the largest and most diverse population in the Bay Area. So when you talk about the biggest human impact at the county level, you're talking about healthcare.
"They run the second biggest hospital system in the state. A very large percentage of their revenue is from the Medicaid program, which has been drastically reduced in the so-called 'big, beautiful bill,'" said Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren. "We need to talk about how we can prevent worst-case scenerios."
Lofren was one of many elected officials who spoke at a community meeting at the Santa Clara County board chambers, organized by Supervisor Betty Duong.
"There are severe, severe detrimental cuts and I don't think even the word 'cuts' is an accurate portrayal of the level of gutting and decimation of our nation's public healthcare system," said Doung. "You will face crowded emergency rooms, longer wait times for healthcare services, because of the ripple effects of HR 1."
At this point, the full impact of the budget law is hard to quantify. Opponents say even if Medicaid coverage, known in California as MediCal, isn't directly cut, access to healthcare will get harder as the system itself is shrunk by defunding.
"It's scary. It's a dumpster fire every other day for us in the disability community," said Michele Mashburn.
The disability rights advocate said she has no doubt that the cuts will lead to deaths.
"There are people that wait to get on disability benefits that no longer work, that become unhoused, and then they die," Mashburn said. "There are many people waiting for benefits that die. There are family members that will lose the supports that they need to take care of their kids. People will be institutionalized, and those institutions are being defunded also. So, the care and services available they're inhumane. They're not just. And with these cuts, that's what's going to happen more."
The law also includes cuts to housing and food assistance. But, at the same time, the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement will be getting an increase in funding, making it the largest law enforcement agency in the country. State Assemblymember Ash Kalra sees a dark motive behind that.
"Tens of billions going into ICE is basically for Trump to create his own Gestapo," he said. "So that he can enforce and do whatever he wants. He's starting by taking over D.C. right now. He made efforts in L.A. and other places. We have to be very honest about what's happening right now. Immigrants are being used as the scapegoat. We must focus on protecting our immigrant community, but we must recognize it's not going to stop at the immigrant communities."
Under the new budget law, it's projected that Santa Clara County alone will face funding cuts of a billion dollars. Congressman Sam Liccardo said California can do what it can, but ultimately, there is no way for the state to replace what is being taken away.
"The truth is there's no entity that can supplant trillions of dollars, and that's what we're talking about, literally one trillion dollars in Medicaid funding," said Liccardo. "And so, these kinds of massive impacts can't be filled by local cities or counties--they're just too large--nor states, which many are struggling just as California is."
The Democrats are pinning their hopes on the 2026 midterm election to return control of Congress back to them. But Liccardo said he thinks it's possible there could be breaks in the Republican ranks even before then.
"We're going to see these impacts nationally. And as the impacts start to roll out, I expect you're going to see more of those colleagues of mine with wobbly knees," he said. "And that will be our opportunity. And maybe this conversation will be much more fruitful about, 'hey, how can we actually reverse some of this damage?'"
The Republicans realize that, so they've timed the major cuts to the healthcare system to kick in a month after the election. That's why local leaders aren't waiting to get the word out to the voters about what's coming for them.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent meeting held in Santa Clara County reflects a broader and alarming trend in the United States: the ongoing dismantling of essential public services under the guise of budgetary reforms. The implications of the federal budget, particularly as it relates to healthcare and social services, cannot be overstated. As Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren and Supervisor Betty Duong articulated, the proposed cuts threaten the very fabric of our healthcare system, risking the livelihoods and lives of millions who rely on programs like Medicaid, known in California as MediCal. These discussions are not merely bureaucratic; they are foundational to our societal structure, highlighting the ongoing struggles for equity and access that resonate throughout American history.
The cuts to Medicaid are not an isolated incident; they are part of a concerning trajectory that has seen social safety nets systematically weakened over the past few decades. This trend can be traced back to the neoliberal policies of the 1980s, which prioritized fiscal conservatism and market deregulation over the welfare of ordinary citizens. Such policies have led to a reality where healthcare is increasingly viewed as a privilege rather than a human right. The current administration's choices, as noted by advocates like Michele Mashburn, are exacerbating conditions for the most vulnerable populations, including those with disabilities, the unhoused, and low-income families. The stakes are high: lives are literally on the line, as the safety net frays and people are left without necessary support.
Moreover, the juxtaposition of funding cuts to healthcare and increased resources for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) serves to highlight a sinister agenda. Assemblymember Ash Kalra’s characterization of ICE as a “Gestapo” underscores the chilling implications of prioritizing enforcement over care. This shift reflects a broader societal tendency to scapegoat marginalized communities, particularly immigrants, during times of economic stress. By funneling resources into enforcement agencies while simultaneously decimating social services, the government not only perpetuates cycles of oppression but also distracts from the very real issues affecting the majority of Americans. This tactic has historical resonance, invoking the systemic discrimination faced by various marginalized groups throughout U.S. history, and calls into question the moral compass of our current leadership.
The meeting in Santa Clara also serves as a microcosm of a larger fight for social justice and equity. As lawmakers and advocates come together to address these issues, it is crucial to recognize the interconnectedness of various social struggles. The fight for healthcare access, disability rights, and immigrant protections are not separate battles; they are all facets of a broader struggle for a just society. The experiences shared by individuals like Michele Mashburn illustrate how cuts to one area inevitably lead to cascading failures in others, ultimately affecting the most vulnerable among us. It is imperative that those who advocate for social justice recognize and articulate these connections, fostering solidarity across different movements.
In light of these events, it is essential for citizens to engage critically with the ongoing political discourse surrounding the federal budget and public services. As the situation unfolds, community meetings like the one in Santa Clara provide a platform for dialogue and action. It is incumbent upon us to hold our elected officials accountable, advocating for policies that prioritize people over profits. By actively participating in these discussions and amplifying the voices of those directly affected by these cuts, we can work toward a future where healthcare and social services are viewed as fundamental human rights—ensuring that no one is left behind in our society’s pursuit of equity and justice.
The recent discussions surrounding the federal budget, particularly as they unfolded in Santa Clara, shine a spotlight on a critical issue affecting millions of Americans: healthcare access and the broader social safety net. As officials convened to address the implications of the so-called "big, beautiful bill," it became evident that the consequences of these budgetary changes could be catastrophic, particularly for the most vulnerable populations. With significant cuts to Medicaid, housing, and food assistance, the fabric of community health and welfare is being threatened, and the voices of local leaders like Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren and Supervisor Betty Duong highlight the urgent need for action and advocacy.
Historically, significant alterations to federal budget allocations have often resulted in stark disparities in healthcare access, particularly for historically marginalized communities. The Medicaid program, a critical lifeline for many low-income Americans, has been under persistent threat from various administrations, but the current trajectory appears to be more severe than ever. The testimony of advocates like Michele Mashburn reinforces the dire reality that individuals with disabilities face; these cuts are not merely budgetary figures on a spreadsheet; they represent real lives affected by the denial of essential services. When communities fight to protect the welfare of their members, they engage in a battle that echoes through time, reminding us of past struggles that shaped our current social safety nets.
As citizens, it is imperative that we actively resist these destructive policies. One way to engage is through grassroots organizing and community advocacy. Attending town hall meetings, like the one in Santa Clara, and voicing concerns can amplify the urgency of the situation. Residents must demand accountability from their elected officials, urging them to prioritize healthcare and community resources over funding for agencies like ICE, which are being utilized to instill fear rather than provide safety. By mobilizing local communities, we can create a unified front that speaks out against the detrimental effects of the budget cuts and calls for a restoration of funding to vital public services.
Moreover, education plays a significant role in activism. Many citizens remain unaware of the implications of these budgetary changes, and it is essential to bridge that gap. Sharing resources, hosting informational sessions, and utilizing social media platforms can help disseminate information about the impacts of the federal budget on local communities. By fostering a well-informed public, we can galvanize more voices to advocate for a healthcare system that is accessible and equitable for all. This also includes bridging conversations with those who may hold different political views, inviting them to consider the human cost of these cuts and the shared value of community health.
Lastly, a critical component of this discourse must focus on the connections between various social justice issues. As Assemblymember Ash Kalra pointed out, the increase in funding for ICE juxtaposed with cuts to social services suggests a disturbing trend toward prioritizing punitive measures over compassionate care. By framing the conversation around the intersectionality of healthcare, immigration, and social justice, we can foster a more comprehensive understanding of these issues. Advocating for policies that protect all individuals, regardless of their immigration status, aligns with the fundamental principle that access to healthcare is a human right.
In conclusion, the challenges posed by the current federal budget are profound, but they are not insurmountable. By engaging in grassroots advocacy, prioritizing education, and understanding the interconnectedness of social issues, we can work toward a more just and equitable society. The ramifications of these budget cuts extend far beyond the immediate impacts on healthcare; they threaten the very foundation of our communities. As concerned citizens, we must act decisively and compassionately to ensure that every individual’s right to health, safety, and dignity is upheld.
In light of the recent discussions surrounding the federal budget and its implications, particularly in the realm of healthcare, housing, and social services, there are several actionable steps we can take as individuals to advocate for the communities affected by these significant cuts. Here are some detailed ideas and actions that can help create a positive impact:
### Personal Actions:
1. **Educate Yourself and Others:** - Read articles, attend community meetings, and participate in discussions to stay informed about the budget's implications on your local community. - Share information on social media platforms or in community groups to raise awareness about the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.
2. **Engage with Local Representatives:** - Write letters or emails to your local, state, and federal representatives expressing your concerns regarding budget cuts to healthcare, housing, and social services. - Attend town hall meetings to voice your opinions and ask questions directly to elected officials.
### Specific Actions:
1. **Petition for Change:** - Start or sign petitions aimed at protecting Medicaid, housing assistance, and food programs. Websites like Change.org or MoveOn.org are great platforms to create and support such initiatives. - Example Petition: "Protect Medicaid Funding for Our Communities" - Search for existing petitions on these platforms or create one addressing the cuts impacting local healthcare services.
2. **Contact Local Elected Officials:** - **Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren** - Email: zoe.lofgren@mail.house.gov - Office Address: 635 North First Street, Suite B, San Jose, CA 95112 - **Supervisor Betty Duong** - Email: district1@bos.sccgov.org - Office Address: 70 West Hedding Street, 10th Floor, San Jose, CA 95110 - **Assemblymember Ash Kalra** - Email: assemblymember.kalra@assembly.ca.gov - Office Address: 100 Paseo De San Antonio, Suite 300, San Jose, CA 95113
**What to Say:** - Express your concerns about the budget cuts and their potential impacts on healthcare access, housing stability, and food security. - Request that they advocate for the restoration of funding to essential services and the protection of vulnerable populations.
3. **Support Local Organizations:** - Volunteer with or donate to local organizations that provide essential services to those affected by budget cuts, such as food banks, healthcare clinics, or disability advocacy groups. Examples include: - **Second Harvest of Silicon Valley** (food assistance) - **Community Health Partnership** (healthcare access) - **Disability Rights California** (advocacy for disability rights)
4. **Raise Awareness through Events:** - Organize or participate in community events such as rallies, workshops, or panel discussions to highlight the consequences of budget cuts and mobilize support for affected communities. - Collaborate with local advocacy groups to amplify your efforts and reach a broader audience.
5. **Utilize Social Media:** - Use platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to share your thoughts, promote petitions, and highlight events that address the implications of the federal budget cuts. - Create a hashtag related to your advocacy efforts to foster community engagement and awareness.
6. **Get Involved with Advocacy Groups:** - Join local chapters of organizations such as the National Organization for Women (NOW), the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), or the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to work collectively toward policy changes.
By taking these proactive steps, individuals can contribute to a larger movement advocating for equitable healthcare, housing security, and social justice, positively impacting their communities amidst changing federal policies.