Why Joe Biden's Spending is Different from Donald Trump's: A Comprehensive Analysis

Introduction

As the 2024 US presidential elections loom, the discussion around governmental spending has become a central topic of debate. Specifically, the question of why Joe Biden spends more than Donald Trump has gained significant traction. This article delves into the nuances of governmental funding, examining the historical context, current policies, and the reasons behind Biden's increased spending.

Historical Context of US Governmental Spending

Governmental spending is a complex issue that has evolved over the years. Historically, the United States government has taken on varying levels of spending depending on the economic and social contexts. For instance, during the Great Depression under Franklin D. Roosevelt, massive spending on public works such as road building and infrastructure grants was initiated to stimulate the economy. Similarly, during the post-9/11 period, significant investments were made in defense and homeland security.

Joe Biden's Administration and Increased Spending

Joe Biden's administration has implemented several initiatives aimed at addressing issues such as climate change, healthcare, and education. Here, we outline some of the key areas where Biden has increased spending:

Climate Change and Environmental Initiatives

The Biden administration has prioritized climate change and has proposed substantial investments in renewable energy, infrastructure, and green jobs. According to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), the American Jobs Plan (AJP) seeks to invest $2 trillion in the construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, and public transportation. This is expected to create millions of jobs and address critical infrastructure needs. Additionally, the American Families Plan targets $1.8 trillion towards healthcare, education, and childcare, with a significant portion going towards investing in green technology and sustainability.

Healthcare and Pandemic Response

Biden's administration has also increased funding for public health initiatives, particularly in the aftermath of the pandemic. The American Rescue Plan (ARP) allocated $1.9 trillion to increase the income of Americans and support businesses and local governments through the pandemic. This includes direct payments to individuals, state and local financial support, and a $349 billion investment in healthcare infrastructure, including vaccine distribution, hospital funding, and reopening schools.

Education and Social Programs

The Biden administration has also increased spending in education and social welfare programs. The American Rescue Plan (ARP) allocated $122 billion specifically for K-12 schools to help with reopening, ensure student safety, and provide resources for addressing the pandemic's impact on learning. Additionally, the ARP provided an extra $350 billion in stimulus payments, which helped individuals and families navigate the economic challenges brought on by the pandemic.

The Role of Congress in Government Spending

It is important to understand that while the President proposes the budget, Congress controls the purse strings. This means that the actual spending levels are subject to congressional review and approval. The Constitution assigns this responsibility to the legislative body, ensuring that spending is in line with the public interest. Occasionally, this leads to conflicts between the executive and legislative branches over spending priorities. For instance, in the case of Biden’s proposed $2 trillion Infrastructure Plan, its implementation required Congress to pass legislation that funded the initiative.

Conclusion

In summary, Joe Biden's increased spending is a result of his administration's focus on addressing critical issues facing the nation. While the total amount spent by Biden's administration is higher than that of Donald Trump's, this can be attributed to both the nature of the issues being addressed and the demands of the current economic and social landscape. The role of Congress in shaping spending decisions underscores the importance of representation and the checks and balances mechanism in US politics.

For a detailed analysis of a particular piece of legislation, one can visit the Congressional website (http://congress.gov) and explore the Legislative Information section to find specific HR numbers and detailed information on spending.