not who receives SNAP benefits
The classic definition of socialism is an economic and political system (or philosophy) in which the means of production (factories, land, resources, machinery, etc.), distribution, and exchange are owned or controlled collectively by society, the community, workers, or the state—rather than by private individuals for profit.
Below is not yet socialism, but it is a lot closer than society supporting strong social safety net programs.
The Trump administration (2025–2026) has directly facilitated or caused government investments (primarily equity stakes, grants converted to equity, loans, and targeted subsidies) in a growing number of specific companies—around 10–15 notable ones for direct equity/ownership positions, with broader policy influence on dozens more via programs like CHIPS Act renegotiations.
Direct Equity Stakes and Major Government Investments
This represents a shift toward the U.S. government becoming a shareholder in strategic private firms for national security reasons (e.g., semiconductors, critical minerals, quantum, nuclear). Key examples include:
• Intel: ~$8.9 billion stake (~9.9–10% equity), converted from prior CHIPS Act grants. Largest by far.
• MP Materials (rare earths): 15% stake via Department of Defense.
• Quantum computing: Equity stakes across 9 companies with ~$2 billion in funding (e.g., involving IBM, Rigetti, GlobalFoundries).
• Critical minerals/mining: Stakes or major funding in companies like Lithium Americas, Trilogy Metals, USA Rare Earth, Vulcan Elements, ReElement Technologies, and others (several more via DoD/Commerce/Energy).
• US Steel: “Golden share”/veto rights as part of Nippon Steel deal.
QUINNSCOMMENTARY 