GOP Speaks On Medicaid Cuts
Rep. Scott Perry (R-Pa.) emphasized on Sunday that Republican efforts to cut government spending would not result in legitimate Medicaid recipients losing their coverage.
During an interview on NewsNation’s “The Hill Sunday,” anchor Chris Stirewalt highlighted that Republicans’ ambitious spending cuts would likely extend beyond just eliminating fraud and waste. Stirewalt pointed to a report from the Office of Management and Budget, which noted that only about 4% of Medicaid payments are improper, totaling over $31 billion in wasted taxpayer money.
Stirewalt asked, “With the level of cuts Republicans are aiming for over the next decade, can you promise that no one will lose their health coverage because of these cuts?”
Rep. Perry responded, saying, “What we can promise is that no one who is legitimately on Medicaid will lose their coverage.” He went on to clarify that Medicaid is intended to help American citizens who need it the most, including those struggling financially or those who cannot work due to health problems. He also pointed out that Medicaid should not be used by individuals who are in the U.S. illegally, stating, “Medicaid is for Americans who need help, not for people who have come into this country unlawfully.”
Perry also addressed the expansion of Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, particularly in states that have expanded coverage to low-income families. While acknowledging these expansions, he criticized the system for its inefficiencies, such as states applying provider taxes that divert funds away from Medicaid-related services. “There’s a lot of waste in the system that needs to be fixed,” Perry said.
He further emphasized the Republican commitment to finding and eliminating waste in government programs. “American taxpayers are fed up with their money being wasted. We’re focused on making sure that every dollar is spent wisely and that the American people get what they’re paying for,” Perry concluded.
Perry’s comments underscore the GOP’s push to reform Medicaid and other entitlement programs while ensuring that those who truly need assistance are not left behind.
