Kurt Couchman on Rescissions: How Cutting Federal Spending Can Protect America’s Future

Most people don’t get excited about federal spending cuts—but maybe they should. In this episode of American Potential , host David From talks with Kurt Couchman, Senior Policy Fellow at Americans for Prosperity, about the little-known budget tool called “rescissions” and why it matters for every taxpayer. Kurt explains how the rescission process works, why it was used heavily by presidents like Ronald Reagan, and how recent packages—like the $9.4 billion in cuts to outdated and duplicative programs—are a small but important step toward fiscal responsibility. He also breaks down the constitutional power struggle over federal spending, the push to restore Congress’s role in budgeting, and why unchecked debt could lead to economic and national security crises. This is a deep dive into one of Washington’s most overlooked budget battles—and why bringing spending under control isn’t just good politics, it’s essential for America’s future.