To make America richer, help poor children

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Recent Republican attempts to weaken the social safety net have one big thing in common: The pain they would inflict on poor children could last a lifetime.

This is not only miserly but also short-sighted. Research shows that safety net programmes keep children in school and out of trouble, and increase their chances of being healthier and living longer. All of this has a positive effect on the economy.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on December 08, 2018, with the headline To make America richer, help poor children. Subscribe