Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., defended recent Medicaid cuts in a budget bill passed by House Republicans, claiming that 4.8 million Americans would not lose access to the program unless they chose to. On NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Johnson emphasized the introduction of “common sense” work requirements for certain Medicaid recipients, where able-bodied individuals must work, engage in job training, or volunteer for 80 hours a month. He dismissed claims that these requirements are too burdensome, stating that requiring 20 hours of involvement per week is reasonable.
Johnson also pointed out that the legislation includes new rules, paperwork, and increased eligibility checks for Medicaid recipients. He argued that implementing these work requirements is overdue and described the enforcement efforts as minor and sensible. His remarks come amid GOP pushback during town hall events, where some Republicans faced hostility over their support for the bill.
Critics, including Senate Democrats and some Republicans, have raised concerns that the additional paperwork and reporting mandates could result in millions losing healthcare coverage. Senator Raphael Warnock, D-Ga., highlighted studies indicating that such reporting requirements tend to disenfranchise recipients rather than encourage employment. He warned that the proposed measures effectively “throw poor people away.”
The bill now proceeds to the Senate, and Johnson expressed confidence it would pass and reach President Donald Trump by July 4, framing its approval as a significant achievement for the Republicans. He asserted a strong commitment to seeing the initiative through, aiming for celebratory recognition of the legislation on Independence Day.
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