Here’s where the factions stand on aid to state and local governments:
- CLs: Ugh! Federal subsidies are always bad! Let the locals fend for themselves!
- CDs: Preserving jobs and local service levels is clearly a good idea.
- PBPs: We don’t care. Just keep those business subsidies coming, and we’ll be happy.
- Reactionaries: We can accept this in part as a mechanism to keep the economy rolling and get Trump re-elected. The deficit is of no interest to us. We’re not crazy about subsidizing blue states that are run by coastal elites for the benefit of illegal immigrants, gays, and minorities, however. Try to keep the program focused on red and purple states full of real Americans.
Conclusion: Trump is blowing hot and cold on this issue. Given the divisions in his party, you can see why.