Senator Hoeven Backs Tax Cut Bill Benefiting North Dakota Amid Medicaid Concerns

The Senate-approved "Big Beautiful Bill," praised by North Dakota Republicans including Sen. John Hoeven and Gov. Kelly Armstrong, aims to deliver over $4 trillion in tax cuts over the next decade, primarily benefiting higher-income Americans and corporations. The legislation also extends the 2017 Trump tax cuts, reduces funding for Medicaid and food stamps, and increases investments in immigration enforcement, border security, and the military. Hoeven and Armstrong emphasized that the bill encourages work among able-bodied Medicaid recipients without cutting traditional Medicaid benefits and argued it will strengthen North Dakota's economy. However, critics warn the bill could push millions off Medicaid, diminish social safety net programs, and add $3.4 trillion to the national deficit, as detailed by the Congressional Budget Office. A state Legislative Council analysis projects an 18% reduction in Medicaid enrollment in North Dakota due to eligibility changes. The bill must still reconcile differences between the Senate and House versions before President Donald Trump can sign it, with House GOP leadership aiming to meet the July 4 deadline.