Many of the people who want to slash social spending have no qualms about Government subsidies to businesses some of which are quite large. Seeing that the businesses are already making money, why do they need subsidies? 

I do however favor Government assistance to areas hit by natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes and tornadoes. These people often have lost everything and they need a hand up. Unfortunately much of the South and Midwest are subject to be hit with extreme weather.

The population shift -- and illegal immigration -- means that the Southern and Southwestern states are also getting an influx of social needs. Those who love to laugh at such sad stats as drop-out and teen pregnancy rates in the South are often the ones who support unfettered illegal immigration and systems that keep the disadvantaged from succeeding in mainstream society.

Should the policiticans -- all politicians -- stop the hypocrisy? Of course. But those who get their jollies from chortling over "red" states and "blue" states are a big part of the problem. We are a divided country and people like you seem to feed off of the divisions. So, I wouldn't point any fingers, if I were you. When this country goes down, way down, because of the constant in-fighting and ulterior motives, it will be a unified downfall, not just red or blue. 

It's amazing how politicians have convinced US there's two types of Americans; liberal-conservative, GOP or Dem, Rich poor, male female, gay straight, young old, etc...

I see two American paths; one for country the other for empire.  Empire is what's not working for the country.  When British colonialism no longer worked, it's like our leaders only saw opportunity for the false god, Profit.  They called it Capitalism, but it was a morphing into empire for the benefit of the few, and the detriment of our country and those they preyed upon. 

As far as social programs, which people paid into, let the politicians' depend on Soc Sec and Medicaid instead of the pensions they qualify for after four years and special healthcare.  I bet they'd defend both Soc Sec and Medicaid if they had to depend on them or paid into them. 

I can't speak for the Midwest, but I do know that the South's situation did not come about overnight.  Nor did it come about because of solely internally-made decisions.  There's a context to government dependence in the South.  We deal with issues of poverty and race and economic oppression that: 1) came into being four centuries ago, and 2) came into being largely because of decisions made in places outside of the South.  If Vermont or Iowa or Oregon shared our history, they would be in the same situation.  There but for the grace of God...