Candidates in the 2024 Republican presidential primary debate are advocating for the elimination of government agencies. This trend of promising to cut the government has gained momentum in recent years, fueled by various factors including Covid-19 school shutdowns, federal regulations, and distrust in the justice system. In this report, we take a closer look at which candidates are proposing to erase which government agencies.
The infamous moment when former Texas Gov. Rick Perry forgot one of the federal agencies he promised to erase during his 2011 presidential campaign is still fresh in our minds. However, it’s ironic that Perry was later appointed by then-President Donald Trump to lead that very same agency, the Department of Energy. Trump himself created a new government agency, the US Space Force, contradicting his promise to shrink the number of agencies.
Most presidents have left their mark by creating new federal agencies, but Republicans’ calls to cut the government have intensified in recent years. The outrage over Covid-19 school shutdowns, anger at federal regulations, and Trump’s attacks on the justice system have fueled this push to reduce the size of the government.
In the upcoming 2024 Republican presidential primary debate, most candidates have expressed their desire to eliminate at least one government agency. We provide an overview of which candidates are targeting which agencies.
Vivek Ramaswamy, a wealthy biotech entrepreneur and political newcomer, has centered his campaign around combating what he sees as “woke” ideology in corporate America. He also emphasizes the need for voters to take back control from the government, stating that the real power lies within the federal government’s three-letter alphabet soup of agencies.
Ramaswamy specifically targets the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), which has faced criticism from Trump and seen a decline in public confidence. He also aims to end the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, both of which have long histories and significant roles in the government.
The debate over reorganizing the federal government has its ebbs and flows throughout history. This report delves into the current wave of calls for major reorganization and the specific agencies that candidates are targeting for elimination.
Note: CNN’s Abby Turner has contributed to this report by extensively researching the campaign sites and speeches of the top Republican candidates to identify their proposed cuts to the government.Discover the Republican candidates’ plans to reshape the US government
The Department of Homeland Security, the FBI, the Environmental Protection Agency – these are just a few of the government agencies that have become hot topics in the current political landscape. As the 2024 presidential campaign heats up, Republican candidates are making bold promises to reshape the US government. From abolishing departments to overhauling agencies, their plans are raising eyebrows and sparking debates.
Reforming the civil service and cutting the federal workforce
Reforming and modernizing the civil service has been a long-standing campaign promise for Republicans. Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson has proposed cutting the federal workforce by 10%, which is considered one of the milder proposals among the candidates. This pledge reflects the larger goal of giving parents more power over education at the local level. However, it raises concerns about how billions in federal funding and loans to US schools and students would be distributed in the absence of the Department of Education.
Targeting the FBI and Justice Department
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has taken a different approach. While he wouldn’t abolish the FBI, he aims to “break up these agencies” and view the Department of Justice (DOJ) as part of the political apparatus rather than an independent agency. DeSantis argues that the DOJ and FBI are not truly independent and should be treated as such. His plan goes beyond replacing the FBI Director and involves a complete “clean house” approach. Additionally, DeSantis plans to eliminate the Departments of Commerce, Energy, and Education.
Eliminating the EPA and safety regulations
Former Vice President Mike Pence has set his sights on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Department of Education, and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Pence’s plan aligns with his vision of reducing government intervention and regulation. By eliminating these agencies, he aims to give more power to the states and reduce federal oversight.
Trump’s expansive promises
Former President Donald Trump’s promises are less specific but equally ambitious. He calls for a complete overhaul and reconstitution of the State Department, defense bureaucracy, and intelligence services. Trump believes that these institutions need to be cleansed of what he refers to as “Deep Staters” and refocused on putting America first. In addition, he targets independent regulatory agencies like the Federal Communications Commission and the Federal Trade Commission, which he refers to as the “fourth branch of government.”
The implications of these plans
While these proposals may resonate with certain voters who desire a smaller government and more local control, they also raise concerns about the potential consequences. Abolishing or significantly reducing government agencies could create a vacuum in crucial areas such as national security, environmental protection, and education. The distribution of federal funding and oversight would need to be carefully considered to ensure the well-being of the nation and its citizens.
As the 2024 presidential campaign progresses, these Republican candidates’ plans to reshape the US government will continue to be a topic of discussion and debate. The ultimate question remains: What kind of government do Americans want, and how will these proposals shape the future of the nation?DeSantis Vows to Eliminate Fourth Branch of Government: What Does This Mean?
In his campaign literature, DeSantis makes a bold promise to eliminate the fourth branch of government. But what exactly does this entail? Let’s delve into the details.
Defining the Fourth Branch of Government
According to conservative lawyer Jonathan Turley, the fourth branch of government refers to the “administrative state of sprawling departments and agencies that govern with increasing autonomy and decreasing transparency.” These agencies have gained significant power and influence as partisan bickering paralyzes Congress.
The Rise of Autonomous Agencies
As Congress struggles to make progress, these agencies have taken on a more active role, regardless of whether Republicans or Democrats are in power. Political appointees oversee these agencies, and the rulemaking process, which is meant to implement laws passed by Congress, includes public comment.
A Long Road Ahead
While DeSantis’ proposal to eliminate the fourth branch of government may sound appealing, turning it into reality is a complex and challenging task. It would require the support of Democrats in the Senate, making it a distant possibility for now. As it stands, these promises remain mere applause lines on the campaign trail.
Discover the implications of DeSantis’ pledge and gain a deeper understanding of the fourth branch of government. Stay informed and be part of the conversation.
Revealing the Government Agencies Republican Candidates Plan to Cut
In the realm of politics, it is not uncommon for candidates to propose various plans and policies aimed at improving the functioning of government agencies. As the United States gears up for the upcoming elections, Republican candidates have put forth their own visions for streamlining the government and reducing its size. This article aims to shed light on the government agencies that these candidates plan to cut, providing an overview of their proposals and the potential implications.
One of the key government agencies that Republican candidates have targeted for reduction is the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA, established in 1970, has been tasked with safeguarding the environment and public health. However, critics argue that the agency has become bloated and overly burdensome, stifling economic growth and hindering businesses with excessive regulations. Republican candidates propose scaling back the EPA’s authority and transferring some of its responsibilities to state and local governments. While this move may alleviate the perceived regulatory burden, it raises concerns about potential disparities in environmental protection standards across different regions.
Another agency on the chopping block is the Department of Education. Republican candidates argue that the federal government’s involvement in education has led to a bureaucratic maze, stifling innovation and local control. They propose reducing the Department of Education’s role and devolving more power to states and local school districts. While this approach may empower local communities, critics worry about the potential for unequal access to quality education and the loss of federal oversight in ensuring educational equity.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is yet another agency that Republican candidates have set their sights on. The IRS, responsible for collecting taxes and enforcing tax laws, has long been a target of criticism for its perceived inefficiency and alleged political bias. Republican candidates propose simplifying the tax code and reducing the IRS’s size and power. While this may streamline the tax system, concerns arise regarding the potential impact on tax collection and enforcement, as well as the potential for increased tax evasion.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is also subject to proposed cuts by Republican candidates. With its vast array of programs and services, the HHS plays a crucial role in public health, healthcare, and social welfare. However, critics argue that the department’s size and complexity have led to inefficiencies and excessive spending. Republican candidates propose reducing the HHS’s budget and transferring some of its responsibilities to state and local governments. While this may lead to cost savings, concerns arise regarding potential disparities in access to healthcare and social services across different regions.
It is important to note that these proposals put forth by Republican candidates are subject to debate and scrutiny. Critics argue that cutting government agencies may have unintended consequences, such as reduced services, increased inequality, and potential regulatory gaps. Proponents, on the other hand, argue that reducing the size of government can lead to increased efficiency, reduced bureaucracy, and greater individual freedom.
As the election season progresses, it is crucial for voters to critically evaluate these proposals and consider their potential implications. The future of government agencies and their role in society is at stake. Ultimately, it is up to the electorate to decide which path to take, weighing the benefits and drawbacks of cutting government agencies against the potential consequences for the nation as a whole.
