Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, is facing a tough challenge as he and his slim GOP majority work to pass President Trump’s budget plan. A significant point of contention is the proposed cuts to Medicaid, which are proving to be unpopular among both the public and some members of his own party.
A recent poll by KFF shows that about 76% of Americans oppose major cuts to Medicaid, a program that provides health insurance to low-income adults and people with disabilities. This widespread disapproval complicates Johnson’s efforts to rally support within his party for the budget, which aims to reduce federal spending.
The Congressional Budget Office, a nonpartisan agency, has indicated that if Republicans want to achieve their savings goals, they will likely need to make cuts to Medicaid. This has led to concern among some House Republicans. Twelve members recently sent a letter to Johnson stating they would not support any budget that reduces Medicaid coverage for vulnerable populations.
Rep. Jeff Hurd, a Republican from Colorado and one of the signers of the letter, emphasized the importance of protecting Medicaid’s original purpose: serving children, pregnant women, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. He noted that in his district, nearly one-third of residents rely on Medicaid.
Hurd pointed out that while he supports reforms, he believes the focus should be on eliminating waste and improper payments rather than cutting benefits. He mentioned that the Government Accountability Office estimates about $50 billion in improper Medicaid payments each year, suggesting that reforms could help address this issue without harming those in need.
During a recent interview, Hurd discussed the challenges faced by low-income workers who often lack access to healthcare. He argued for a balanced approach that would protect vulnerable populations while also encouraging those who can work to seek employment.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how Johnson and his party will navigate the complexities of Medicaid funding. The pressure is on to find a solution that satisfies both fiscal conservatives and the needs of millions of Americans who depend on the program.