Trump Adviser Slams $12M Pickleball Complex: Stephen Moore, an economic adviser to President-elect Donald Trump, criticized federal spending on projects such as a $419,470 cocaine study on rats and a $12 million pickleball complex in Las Vegas. Moore argued these expenditures contribute significantly to the growing U.S. national debt.
Concerns Over Federal Spending
Moore’s comments came in response to Sen. Rand Paul’s (R-KY) annual “Festivus” list, which highlights government spending programs he opposes. Moore pointed out the $419,470 rat study, which explores the effects of cocaine on rats, as an example of wasteful spending.
“I mean, pickleball, I love playing pickleball, but I don’t think the federal government should be subsidizing it, or football stadiums, or there’s another one where they’re giving rats cocaine to see what happens when the rats take cocaine,” (Stephen Moore said during the interview).
Criticism of Government Priorities
Moore further emphasized his belief that such expenditures are contributing to the country’s massive national debt, which currently stands at $35.5 trillion. He suggested that these projects should be eliminated to help reduce the debt.
“And this is what is contributing so much to our $35.5 trillion national debt,”. “And frankly, those are the things that should just be eliminated. We don’t have the money to do it.” (Stephen Moore)
The Debate Over Government Spending
Moore’s comments bring attention to a wider debate about government spending priorities. Critics argue that some government-funded projects are unnecessary and should be reallocated to address more pressing national needs, while others support funding for scientific research and recreational initiatives that promote health and well-being.