House Republicans have introduced a new proposal to cut Medicaid funding, triggering strong backlash from Democrats who warn the move could strip millions of Americans of essential health care coverage.
The proposed cuts are part of a broader GOP budget plan aimed at reducing federal spending and curbing the national debt. Republican lawmakers argue the current Medicaid system is unsustainable, claiming that reforms are necessary to prevent fraud, encourage work, and preserve the program for future generations.
The plan includes stricter eligibility requirements, work mandates for certain recipients, and significant reductions in federal contributions to state Medicaid programs. GOP leaders insist that the cuts would not impact the most vulnerable populations, such as seniors and individuals with disabilities.
“We’re restoring fiscal responsibility,” said House Budget Committee Chair Mark Thompson. “These reforms are about saving Medicaid, not ending it.”
Democrats, however, describe the plan as reckless and dangerous. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries called the proposal a “war on the poor,” arguing it would force low-income families, children, and people with chronic conditions to lose access to vital medical services.
According to a preliminary analysis by the Congressional Budget Office, the cuts could affect up to 15 million Americans over the next decade. Health care advocacy groups have also voiced concerns, warning that hospitals and clinics in underserved areas could face closures due to funding shortfalls.
The proposal is unlikely to pass the Democratic-controlled Senate in its current form, but it signals a renewed partisan battle over health care and entitlement reform heading into the 2026 election cycle.
With Medicaid covering more than 80 million people in the U.S., the political stakes—and human consequences—of this debate could be enormous.
