Story perspectives

Taxpayers Face $4,049 Military Cost Amid Medicaid Cuts

4/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

The average taxpayer paid $4,049 for military spending last year (2025), surpassing Medicaid's about $2,500.
More than half of Pentagon spending goes to private contractors, whose CEOs earn over $25 million annually.
As Medicaid cuts take effect, the gap between military spending and social services will widen.
U.S. President Donald Trump plans to request $1.5 trillion for the Pentagon next year, raising concerns about prioritizing military funding over public welfare.

1 of 1

Story summary

The average taxpayer paid $4,049 for military spending last year (2025), surpassing Medicaid's about $2,500.
More than half of Pentagon spending goes to private contractors, whose CEOs earn over $25 million annually.
As Medicaid cuts take effect, the gap between military spending and social services will widen.
U.S. President Donald Trump plans to request $1.5 trillion for the Pentagon next year, raising concerns about prioritizing military funding over public welfare.