Donald Trump spoke of “cuts” in social benefits on Monday, an outing immediately criticized by his Democratic rival, Joe Biden.
The former Republican president and candidate in the November election was questioned on the economic channel CNBC about his plans to finance the major American social systems in the long term: Medicare (health insurance for seniors), Social Security (old age insurance) and Medicaid (health insurance for the most disadvantaged).
“There are a lot of cuts that are possible,” said the 77-year-old tycoon.
“I will never allow it,” replied the American president a little later, campaigning in New Hampshire.
“Instead of cutting old age insurance and health insurance, I will strengthen (them) and I will ensure that the richest pay their fair share of taxes,” he added.
If Donald Trump is elected “he will try to reverse everything we have done so far,” said the 81-year-old Democrat, who praised his own efforts to reduce the sometimes exorbitant cost of medicines for households.
The Democrat, who unveiled a draft budget on Monday that looks like an electoral program, wants to finance his projects through higher taxation of multinationals and the richest.
In the program elements published on his website, Donald Trump calls for not removing “one cent” from senior social security plans. The former president regularly promises to lower taxes and impose heavier taxes on imported products.
The campaign between the two men, who barring a huge surprise will be the two candidates in the presidential election in November, is now truly launched, and the economy obviously occupies an important place.