Related Post
WASHINGTON, D.C. (KATU) — Senate Democrats are cautioning their Republican colleagues against funding tax cuts for the wealthy by making deep cuts to Medicaid, a program that provides essential health coverage to millions of Americans, including children, seniors, and people with disabilities.
Nearly 80 million Americans are enrolled in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) nationwide, and Medicaid alone covers more than 40% of births in the United States. The programs also offers vital health services, including mental health care and treatment for fentanyl addiction, which affects states across the political spectrum.
In a letter to Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., and House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., all 47 members of the Senate Democratic Caucus wrote: “We urge you to reject proposals that use Medicaid as a piggy bank for partisan priorities and continue to defend the importance of this vital program.”
READ MORE: Merkley, other U.S. senators urge reversal of Trump’s wildfire funding cuts
The letter comes amid concerns over the Trump Administration’s freeze on federal funds to states, which jeopardizes Medicaid access. Congressional Republicans have reportedly discussed plans to cut Medicaid by up to $2.3 trillion, potentially stripping health benefits from millions and making it harder for them to retain their healthcare providers.
“Republicans are proposing cuts to the Medicaid program from hundreds of billions to multiple trillions of dollars,” the Senators wrote. “These proposals will also force states to make difficult decisions that will result in millions getting kicked off their coverage and providers struggling to keep their practices open.”
Senate Democrats warn that such cuts would disproportionately affect working families, shift financial burdens onto states and local taxpayers, and could lead to the closure of health facilities in rural areas, leaving vulnerable communities with fewer care options.
The Democrats vowed to protect Medicaid and expressed hope for bipartisan recognition of the program’s importance.
“While we disagree on these costly and misguided policies, we are hopeful that there is bipartisan understanding of Medicaid’s importance for millions across the country,” they wrote, emphasizing Medicaid’s cost-effectiveness and its role in strengthening communities and the nation.
The letter was signed by prominent Senate Democrats, including Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., among others.
