Mathews Calls Budget Bill A Blow to Working and Rural Americans

Frank Mathews, District 4 Administrative Director for the Communications Workers of America, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the recent budget bill signed by President Donald Trump, its impact on working Americans and the challenges facing rural broadband expansion.

The budget bill, touted as "big and beautiful" by the Trump administration, is anything but, Mathews argued. He explained how the legislation shifts wealth to the wealthy while burdening working-class and poor families. The bill is expected to add $4 trillion to the national debt over the next decade, contradicting Republican claims of fiscal responsibility. Mathews highlighted how the bill's supposed benefits, such as tax exemptions on overtime and Social Security, are limited in scope and set to expire in 2028, while cuts to essential programs like Medicaid and Medicare are delayed until after the next election.

Rural broadband expansion, a critical issue for CWA members, faces significant setbacks under the current administration. Mathews detailed how the Trump administration's changes to the Biden-era broadband program have caused delays and shifted priorities away from long-term fiber optic investments. These changes favor less expensive, short-term solutions like satellite internet, potentially leaving rural communities with inferior connectivity for years to come. The alterations also removed requirements for affordability and community involvement, further disadvantaging rural residents, he added. 

Matthews then emphasized the need for voters to hold politicians accountable, regardless of party affiliation. He stressed the importance of supporting candidates who prioritize working families and long-term investments in America's infrastructure, rather than those focused solely on re-election and tax breaks for the wealthy.

For more insights on these issues, listen to the full episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast.