http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/laura/trump-flying-blind-s440.pngThis administration's failure to base decisions on evidence and analysis leaves citizens to bear the brunt of poorly conceived policies.

LAKE GENEVA, WI - The Trump administration's blatant disregard for conducting impact studies on their sweeping policy changes and budget cuts is not only irresponsible but downright dangerous. By neglecting to assess the real-world consequences of their actions, they are essentially navigating without a map, leaving millions vulnerable to unforeseen hardships. This cavalier approach begs the question: do they even care about the fallout of their decisions?

Take, for instance, the administration's decision to retract $11.4 billion in COVID-19 funding from state and local health departments. This move, executed without a thorough analysis of its potential impact, undermines efforts to combat the ongoing pandemic and leaves communities ill-prepared for future health crises.

Similarly, the proposed cuts to Medicaid threaten to strip essential healthcare from vulnerable populations. In Texas, experts warn that these reductions could lead to devastating losses for hospitals and clinics, potentially resulting in closures and diminished services. The absence of impact studies means these communities are left in the dark about the full extent of the damage until it's too late.

The administration's assault on scientific research further exemplifies this reckless behavior. The cancellation of numerous grants focused on critical health questions, including studies on HIV prevention and cancer, represents a significant step backward in our pursuit of medical advancements. The lack of foresight and analysis in these decisions not only hinders scientific progress but also jeopardizes lives.

Moreover, the purging of government data sets, including those related to crime, education, and climate, hampers policymakers' ability to make informed decisions. This systematic dismantling of information repositories indicates a deliberate effort to blindfold both the public and decision-makers, raising concerns about the administration's motives and priorities.

The refusal to conduct impact studies or consider expert analyses reflects a disturbing indifference to the well-being of the American people. It appears the administration is more concerned with pushing through its agenda than understanding or mitigating the harm it may cause. This negligence is not just an oversight; it's a dereliction of duty.

In a functioning democracy, leaders are expected to base decisions on evidence and thorough analysis to serve the best interests of their constituents. The current administration's failure to do so is a betrayal of this fundamental principle, leaving citizens to bear the brunt of poorly conceived policies.

It's high time we demand accountability and insist that our leaders prioritize the health, safety, and prosperity of all Americans. The stakes are too high to allow this reckless disregard for impact assessments to continue unchecked.