GOP plan sparks tension over Medicaid

Tensions are rising in Washington as lawmakers debate the future of key social programs in the face of a new budget blueprint.

(CNN)- Tensions are rising in Washington as lawmakers debate the future of key social programs in the face of a new budget blueprint. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R) says the House could vote on the Republican-backed plan today, which has already received approval from the Senate. If passed, it could set the course for U.S. spending in the coming years.

Republicans argue that the plan, which includes a request for the House Energy and Commerce Committee to find $880 billion in cuts over the next decade, is essential for fiscal responsibility. However, critics worry that the cuts could impact Medicaid, the healthcare program that serves over 20% of Americans, including most seniors in nursing homes. Rep. Mike Johnson has assured the public that Medicare, Social Security, and Medicaid are not in danger of being eliminated, but he has emphasized a desire to refine and reduce waste in these programs. “We’re not gonna cut Medicare, Social Security or Medicaid,” Johnson said, adding that the plan aims to protect eligible beneficiaries while targeting fraud and inefficiencies.

On the other side, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D) is raising alarms about potential cuts to Medicaid. He has accused Republicans of launching “an assault on Medicaid” and other crucial safety net programs for children, families, and older Americans. “I’m ready to debate one-on-one on this House floor,” Jeffries said, challenging Speaker Johnson to a public colloquy. So far, Johnson has not accepted the challenge.

While Republicans argue that reforms are necessary to address budget concerns, analysts warn that significant cuts to the program may be unavoidable if the proposed savings are to be met. Medicaid, which provides health coverage to millions of Americans, is seen as a key target for these cuts.