We already have socialism, but it’s for the rich

Latest


Trump says America will never be a socialist country, but Bernie Sanders pointed out recently that it already is. He said the problem is, it’s just socialism for the rich.
Here are just a few examples of the subsidies provided to corporations by the federal government:
• According to economist Robert Reich, in 2018, the country’s largest banks saved $21 billion thanks to Trump’s tax cuts.
• The government subsidizes the pharmaceutical industry in various ways, including by covering about one-third of the $100 billion annual cost of biomedical research, an American Medical Association study found.
• And according to Taxpayers for Common Sense, tax breaks, weak regulations and other subsidies to the oil and gas industry have added more than $100 billion to the industry’s profits over the last several decades. The industry has racked up $2.4 trillion in profits (in 2019 dollars) since 1990.
Maybe if those on the bottom could get at least as much socialism as those on the top, we could lift everyone out of poverty. And, maybe we could take a step toward getting rid of the corporations altogether while we’re at it?

+ Articles by this author

The People’s Tribune opens its pages to voices of the movement for change. Our articles are written by individuals or organizations, along with our own reporting. Bylined articles reflect the views of the authors. Articles entitled “From the Editors” reflect the views of the editorial board. Please credit the source when sharing: peoplestribune.orgPlease donate to help us keep bringing you voices of the movement for change. Click here. We’re all volunteer, no paid staff. The People’s Tribune is a 501C4 organization.

Featured

Death Toll Expected to Rise: Justice for Those in Detention

Detainees in ICE detention are pleading for help due to inhumane conditions. Now, as of August 4, 2026, at least 24 detainees have died in custody this year alone.

Minnesota Trade Unionists Among Those Targeted; Feds Indict ICE Observers

Minnesota trade unionists are among 15 people indicted by the federal government, as part of a crackdown on organizing in opposition to the ICE and Border Patrol. Support is needed.

Japanese Internment Survivors, Faith Leaders Demand Texas ICE Detention Center Close

Faith leaders and Japanese internment camp survivors held a 45 mile pilgrimage demanding the closure of the only federal family detention center, described as inhumane and a tragic “repetition of American history.”

Progressives? Conservatives? Left? Right? Who Do They All Represent?

The billionare class paints the economy as very good based on rising stock market episodes that don’t filter down to most blue-collar people. Let’s concentrate our efforts on those fighting for the needs of the many.

A Somali Perspective on Life in Minnesota

The words “Nobody wants you here,” may have been directed at one Somali family, but they do not define Minnesota’s Somali community. By listening to the voices of Somalis themselves, a different story emerges, one of belonging, resilience, and community.

More from the People's Tribune