House Republicans Struggle Over Medicaid Cuts Amid Opposition

House Republicans are considering major Medicaid cuts, aiming to find $880 billion in savings to offset President Trump's domestic agenda and tax cuts, a move that has sparked significant debate among lawmakers. While GOP leaders insist they want to preserve benefits for eligible recipients and root out waste, fraud, and abuse—possibly through work requirements—many moderates and Democrats warn these cuts could threaten coverage for millions, especially in states that expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. Several House Republicans from competitive districts have expressed opposition to any reduction in Medicaid benefits, highlighting internal party divisions. Public health advocates and Democratic lawmakers argue that proposed work requirements and funding reductions would harm vulnerable populations, including children, seniors, and people with disabilities, and undermine local economies. Some Republicans suggest shifting more financial responsibility to states, potentially ending the enhanced federal match for expansion populations, though critics note this could force states to reduce benefits or eligibility. The debate reflects broader disagreements over the future of Medicaid as a universal safety net versus a more targeted welfare program.