We Must Keep Up Our Advocacy: ACU Is Elevating Voices Urging Congress to Protect Medicaid
Congress is back in session, and proposals tied to President Trump’s sweeping domestic agenda could slash up to $880 billion from health care programs over the next decade—with Medicaid squarely in the crosshairs. While Republican leadership is highlighting popular elements like tax cuts and border security, deep Medicaid cuts remain central to their budget blueprint. New GOP polling reveals broad public opposition to Medicaid cuts, especially among independents, with nearly half of voters rejecting reductions even when framed as a debt-reduction measure. Despite this, internal divisions continue, with moderate Republicans warning of the political and human cost of these proposals.
One such moderate, Rep. Don Bacon of Nebraska, has reportedly told the White House he will not support more than $500 billion in Medicaid cuts. His position is significant as House Speaker Mike Johnson can only afford to lose three Republican votes, and others like Reps. Thomas Massie and Victoria Spartz have already signaled opposition. Rep. Vern Buchanan has also voiced concerns about Medicaid reductions while pushing for stronger oversight of fraud and inefficiency. The Energy and Commerce Committee has been tasked with identifying $880 billion in health savings, though its chair insists not all would come from Medicaid. Still, the threat is real, especially for expansion states and vulnerable communities. Medicaid remains the single largest payer of behavioral health services, and additional cuts could undermine access at a time of rising need for mental health and substance use care.
ACU is doubling down to ensure that the voices of patients, providers, and advocates are heard. We urge Congress to reject these dangerous cuts and protect this vital program. We encourage you to take action, share your story through op-eds, letters to the editor, direct meetings with legislators, and social media. Use our updated advocacy toolkit and join ACU’s network of advocates to stay informed and mobilized. Now more than ever, your voice is critical to safeguarding health care for millions of Americans.
Take Action Now
- Share your Medicaid story
- Download our advocacy toolkit
- Post your story on social media
- Publish an op-ed or letter to the editor
- Example Op-Ed from one of our members, Dr. Felix Nuñez: “Protecting Medi-Cal — a lifeline for Ventura County families”
Do you have questions or need guidance on your advocacy? Please contact Amanda Pears Kelly.
