Military Spending Facts
Which country has the second-largest military budget in the world after the United States?
China
What is the federal minimum wage in the U.S. as of 2024?
$7.25 per hour.
What is the purpose of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)?
To provide food-purchasing assistance for low- and no-income individuals and families.
According to studies, how does increasing the minimum wage impact poverty rates?
It reduces poverty rates by increasing the income of low-wage workers.
What is one argument in favor of reallocating military funds to education?
Improved education leads to a more skilled workforce, which boosts economic growth and innovation.
What percentage of the U.S. federal budget was allocated to the military in 2023?
Approximately 13%
What percentage of full-time workers in the U.S. live below the poverty line?
Approximately 8%.
How many people were enrolled in Medicaid in the U.S. in 2023?
Approximately 84 million.
What are the long-term economic benefits of providing universal healthcare?
Improved public health, increased productivity, and reduced healthcare costs overall.
Which welfare program could benefit most from increased funding, according to recent studies?
The Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8), due to the high demand and long waiting lists.
What is the name of the act that annually authorizes the budget for the Department of Defense?
The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
What term describes workers who earn low wages despite working full-time or multiple jobs?
The working poor.
Which program provides financial assistance to disabled and elderly individuals with low income?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
How does access to affordable childcare impact the workforce?
It increases workforce participation, particularly among women, and improves job stability.
How could reallocating funds from the military to healthcare impact public health?
It could expand access to medical services, reduce healthcare costs, and improve overall public health outcomes.
How much did the U.S. spend on its military in 2022?
Approximately $778 billion.
What is the main federal assistance program for low-income families with children?
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).
What is the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) designed to do?
To reduce the tax burden on low- to moderate-income working individuals and families, particularly those with children.
What effect does the Child Tax Credit have on child poverty rates?
It significantly reduces child poverty rates by providing additional income to families with children.
What impact could increased funding for infrastructure have on the economy?
It could create jobs, improve efficiency, and stimulate economic growth through better transportation and utilities.
Name one major U.S. defense contractor
Lockheed Martin.
What demographic group makes up the largest percentage of the working poor?
Women, particularly single mothers.
What program offers housing vouchers to assist low-income families in renting privately-owned housing?
The Housing Choice Voucher Program, commonly known as Section 8.
How can investment in education benefit the economy?
It leads to a more skilled workforce, higher productivity, and increased economic growth.
How might reallocating military spending to renewable energy initiatives benefit society?
It could reduce dependence on fossil fuels, create green jobs, and mitigate climate change impacts.