Josh Hawley draws line on Medicaid cuts, urges GOP to follow Trump’s lead

Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri has once again made it clear that he will not support any proposed cuts to Medicaid benefits. He is urging his colleagues to follow President Donald Trump’s lead and leave the widely used healthcare program largely intact. As Senate committees work on their own version of the president’s healthcare bill, much attention has been focused on the work being done by the Senate Finance Committee.

The Senate Finance Committee, responsible for health care, tax, and other policy provisions, is expected to release its portion of the budget reconciliation package on Tuesday. House GOP-authored Medicaid provisions have been a contentious issue for some Senate Republicans, including Senator Hawley. The changes made by the Senate could either propel or hinder the progress of the massive legislative package.

Senator Hawley has been vocal in his stance that any version of the healthcare bill that strips benefits from his constituents will not receive his support. He emphasized the importance of listening to President Trump’s wishes, as he was the one who won the election and expressed a desire to avoid Medicaid benefit cuts and hospital closures in rural areas, while also protecting Medicare.

During a press call on Friday, Senator Hawley discussed the inclusion of his Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) in the healthcare bill, calling it a significant win as it has been his leading legislative priority for two years. However, Medicaid remains one of his top concerns in the reconciliation process.

While Senator Hawley supports certain changes to Medicaid proposed by House Republicans, such as stricter work requirements and measures to combat fraud and abuse, he is adamant about protecting the 1.3 million Missourians who rely on Medicaid and CHIP. He stressed that most of these individuals are hard-working people who cannot afford private health insurance and depend on Medicaid for essential healthcare access.

Senator Hawley’s unwavering stance on preserving Medicaid benefits reflects his commitment to representing the needs of his constituents. As the Senate works on crafting its version of the healthcare bill, his voice will be crucial in ensuring that the final legislation aligns with the priorities of the American people.