The Bellevue Compass

Guiding you through federal, state, and local policy changes.

Presented by Bellevue Strategies and Bellevue Public Affairs.

Navigating the Impact of DOGE’s Cuts to Local Economies and Communities
Bellevue Team Bellevue Team

Navigating the Impact of DOGE’s Cuts to Local Economies and Communities

DOGE’s recent cuts are causing uncertainty across multiple sectors, with nonprofits, contractors, and local economies bearing the brunt. Organizations are struggling with fluctuating federal funding, and many face challenges in securing grants and managing the impact of rising vacancy rates in local real estate. As the situation continues to evolve, there’s growing concern about what funding will remain available and how these cuts will affect ongoing projects.

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Navigating Healthcare Under Trump’s Second Term
Bellevue Team Bellevue Team

Navigating Healthcare Under Trump’s Second Term

As Donald Trump begins his second term, his healthcare agenda promises major shifts in Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and public health policy. With proposed cuts to Medicaid and efforts to reshape the ACA, the administration’s approach could have significant impacts on low-income Americans, healthcare providers, and state governments. Key appointments like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services and Dr. Mehmet Oz to lead CMS could also dramatically alter the healthcare landscape. This post explores what these changes mean for Pennsylvania and Philadelphia, where healthcare access could be affected by federal cuts.

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Navigating Trump’s Federal Tax Plan
Bellevue Team Bellevue Team

Navigating Trump’s Federal Tax Plan

As President Trump advances into his second term with characteristic resolve, his sweeping new tax plan has come under intense scrutiny. While large corporations and high-income earners stand to benefit from corporate tax cuts and a potential removal of the SALT cap, critics warn the plan could shift much of the tax burden onto middle- and low-income households. Complicating matters further are Republican disagreements in Congress, razor-thin majorities, and a looming budget deadline, all of which leave the ultimate fate of these proposals far from certain.

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Navigating Changes to Arts & Culture in Pennsylvania
Julie Platt Julie Platt

Navigating Changes to Arts & Culture in Pennsylvania

President Trump’s return to office raises significant concerns regarding federal arts funding and cultural policy. From changes to the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) grants to the closure of the Smithsonian’s diversity office, the President’s aggressive stance signals a potential shift away from support for the arts. As federal funding faces cuts, particularly in Pennsylvania and Philadelphia, the importance of state-level investment becomes more pressing. With the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations on the horizon, arts and culture organizations must navigate these shifts and explore new opportunities for funding and growth.

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The Federal Housing Crisis: Navigating Policy Shifts and State-Level Solutions
Julie Platt Julie Platt

The Federal Housing Crisis: Navigating Policy Shifts and State-Level Solutions

The U.S. housing supply is at a breaking point, with seven million units needed to meet demand. While President Trump's proposed budget cuts and regulatory changes may impact federal housing programs, opportunities at the state and local levels remain critical. This post examines how Pennsylvania and Philadelphia are poised to address housing affordability and availability despite the shifting federal landscape.

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Building a Culture of Accountability: Interview with PA Auditor General Tim DeFoor
Bellevue Team Bellevue Team

Building a Culture of Accountability: Interview with PA Auditor General Tim DeFoor

In this insightful interview, Pennsylvania Auditor General Tim DeFoor discusses his commitment to depoliticizing the office, enhancing audit processes, and ensuring transparency in how taxpayer dollars are spent—ultimately building a lasting culture of accountability.

“The next four years are about ensuring that what we’ve built is ingrained as part of the Auditor General’s culture for the rest of this administration and future administrations. They can take a look at what we build, improve it, and grow from there.”

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Navigating Government Procurement Challenges in Trump’s New Administration
Julie Platt Julie Platt

Navigating Government Procurement Challenges in Trump’s New Administration

A second Trump administration may rescind Biden-era clean energy and affirmative action mandates, while bolstering “Buy America” requirements. Expect emphasis on cybersecurity, defense, and infrastructure—potentially at the expense of education, the IRS, EPA, and HUD. Pennsylvania businesses could benefit from AI investments and a robust manufacturing sector, but small and minority-owned firms should brace for funding changes.

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