Politics
Spotlight is a nonpartisan website and does not endorse particular candidates or policies. That being said, understanding the political landscape and systems is essential in evaluating and addressing poverty in America. Further, Spotlight works to lift up poverty issues that may be overlooked in political campaigns and where candidates stand on these topics.This section of the Spotlight website gathers the latest research, news, and opinion around politics, poverty, and opportunity.
Related News
Millions Could Lose Medicaid Coverage Due to New Rules
Between 4.9 and 10.1 million people could lose Medicaid coverage in 2028 as the result of new work requirements and more frequent eligibility checks.

SNAP Cuts Could Lead to 70,000 Preventable Deaths
New state estimates reveal expanded work requirements could result in tens of thousands of avoidable deaths across the country by 2040.

Minnesota's New Paid Leave Program is Godsend to Some, Frustrating to Others
While The Paid Leave Act has worked well for some who have taken advantage of it, others complain that they’ve been held up by complications, delays and red tape.

Oz Escalates Medicaid Fraud Claims Against States After Focus on Minnesota
The Trump administration has signaled a willingness to halt billions of dollars in federal health payments to multiple states, mirroring moves they made against Minnesota.

Food Insecurity Remained High in 2025, Urban Institute Report Finds
Food insecurity remained high in 2025, a new Urban Institute brief found, with nearly 1 in 4 adults reporting difficulty affording adequate food.

President Trump Launches Anti-Fraud Task Force to be Led by Vice President Vance
President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Monday launching a national task force led by Vice President JD Vance aimed at proving Trump's claims that federal funds intended for social-welfare programs are being stolen in some states.

Largest Housing Affordability Bill in Generation Passes the Senate
A bipartisan group of senators passed a bill Thursday aimed at improving housing affordability. The measure contains roughly 40 provisions intended to increase housing supply and lower costs. It remains to be seen if it can pass the House as is, however.

SNAP Recipients Sue Over Bans on Sugary Drinks
In suing to halt restrictions in five states, the plaintiffs argued that the Trump administration violated laws authorizing SNAP and governing changes in policies.

Florida Looks to Add Work Requirements Even Without Expanding Medicaid
In states that have long refused to expand Medicaid to more low-income adults, people in the program aren’t subject to new rules under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act requiring them to prove they’re working in order to get and keep coverage. That’s not stopping Florida lawmakers from trying to adopt Medicaid work requirements anyway.

