The House Is on FIRE: Reps. Sewell and Figures on Federal Cuts

Josh and David tackle religious mandates in schools, calling out multiple bills trying to force Ten Commandments displays and "Judeo-Christian prayers" on students. David, a devout Christian himself, finds these proposals "patently offensive" and contrary to true religious freedom.The hosts dig into Gov. Kay Ivey's power struggle with the Veterans Affairs board, suggesting a compromise where she could fire the commissioner but would select candidates from a board-approved list rather than turning it into just another political appointment.Rep. Terri Sewell doesn't hold back on the "chaotic" federal budget cuts hammering Alabama. From Medicaid to community health centers to Social Security, she warns these services face devastating impacts while the wealthy get tax breaks. Sewell outlines Democrats' strategy of "litigating, legislating, and mobilizing" to fight back.Freshman Congressman Shomari Figures brings fresh energy to the discussion, criticizing the administration for using "a chainsaw when a scalpel is needed." He points out the $2 trillion deficit framework somehow finds money for tax cuts for the wealthy but not for everyday Americans. Figures also calls out Elon Musk's "conflict of interest" and slams targeted cuts affecting HBCUs.The show wraps with Josh and David defending Avette Dunn, a dedicated lunchroom worker fired after eight years of exemplary service for accepting an anonymous donation to help feed kids. They call it a perfect example of senseless "bureaucratic nonsense" that punishes good intentions.Connect with UsX/TwitterFacebookAbout Our SponsorAlabama Politics This Week is sponsored by Wind Creek Hospitality. Gaming is the heart of Wind Creek Hospitality, but they offer so much more. Wind Creek's 10 distinct properties in the U.S. and Caribbean — including four in Alabama — provide world-class entertainment, dining, hotel stays, amenities and activities. As the principal gaming and hospitality entity for the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, Wind Creek continues to grow and offer guests luxurious destinations and opportunities for escape.Send us a questionWe take a bit of time each week to answer questions from our audience about Alabama politics — or Alabama in general. If you have a question about a politician, a policy, or a trend — really anything — you can shoot us an email at [email protected] can also send it to us on Facebook and Twitter. Or by emailing us a voice recording to our email with your question, and we may play it on air. Either way, make sure you include your name (first name is fine) and the city or county where you live.Music creditsMusic courtesy of Mr. Smith via the Free Music Archive: https://freemusicarchive.org/music/mr-smith/discography