All In with Chris Hayes – 2/26/25

 
The video, hosted by Chris Hayes covers various political developments and controversies surrounding Elon Musk’s influence over the Trump administration. The key topics discussed include:
Musk’s Unconstitutional Power Grab
Musk is reportedly running an extralegal government operation, controlling significant aspects of U.S. policy without being elected or confirmed by the Senate.
His team is slashing budgets in agencies that regulate his businesses while benefiting from government contracts.
The administration refuses to clarify his official role, while Musk wields significant decision-making power.
Mass Layoffs and Policy Blunders
Musk’s team has fired federal employees indiscriminately, leading to critical operational failures.
Programs like Ebola prevention and nuclear weapon safety initiatives were canceled, then awkwardly reinstated.
The Trump-Musk administration is attempting to cut Medicaid and Social Security while providing tax breaks to billionaires.
Public Backlash and Republican Dilemma
Republicans face increasing resistance from their own voters, particularly over Medicaid cuts.
GOP representatives avoid town halls due to anger from constituents who depend on these social programs.
The administration’s austerity measures are deeply unpopular, even among Trump’s base.
Anti-Vaccine Policies and Public Health Crisis
The new Health and Human Services Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an anti-vaccine advocate, is downplaying a major measles outbreak.
The administration is cutting vaccine research funding, halting pandemic preparedness efforts, and withdrawing from global health initiatives.
Experts warn these decisions will have severe consequences for public health and safety.
Federal Workforce and Social Security Cuts
Reports indicate plans to massively downsize the federal workforce, including Social Security Administration offices.
Critics argue these cuts will negatively impact vulnerable populations and reduce essential services.
The governor of Kentucky, Andy Beshear, warns that these measures would devastate his state, where Medicaid covers a third of the population.