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When discussing the Veterans Administration (VA) and National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rattner highlighted the political struggle intrinsic to implementing such cuts. The VA, which provides healthcare to over 6 million veterans, has historically received bipartisan support for funding, particularly concerning health issues like those arising from exposure to burn pits. He argues that attempting to reverse previous commitments would meet with substantial public and political resistance.
In contrast, the NIH is portrayed as a vital organization responsible for research that the private sector might overlook. Cuts to the NIH could hinder advancements in crucial medical fields, including cancer research.