Shutdown Stretches: Trump Doesn't Mind, Defense Contractors Cheer
The New York Times observes that Donald Trump seems unbothered by a potential government shutdown, framing it as a political chess move. What they don't quite connect is how these manufactured crises—often centered on spending disputes—rarely impact the bloated defense budgets or the relentless flow of aid to foreign militaries. While domestic programs face the axe, the MIC's gravy train rarely
derails. In fiscal year 2023, the US allocated $886 billion to defense, dwarfing the crumbs fought over during shutdowns. One might wonder if the real 'art of the deal' isn't about governing, but about ensuring the public believes essential services are under threat, while the true essentials—like unwavering military spending and foreign aid packages (e.g., the $14.5 billion supplementary aid
package to Israel, H.R.6126 introduced October 2023 )—sail through on a separate current, regardless of a 'shutdown.' Who cares if parks close when Raytheon's stock is up?