Republicans Confirm Plans to Cut Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid

House Speaker Mike Johnson has publicly confirmed that Republicans have a plan to reduce mandatory federal spending, specifically targeting Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. These programs represent approximately 73-74% of federal spending and are currently on autopilot, prompting Republican leadership to seek reforms. Johnson committed to implementing these changes, signaling a significant policy shift that could affect millions of Americans who rely on these essential benefits. The move aligns with prior calls from former President Donald Trump to cut these programs.

House Republicans have already voted to reduce Medicaid funding, a decision projected to remove coverage from millions according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. These Medicaid cuts are expected to impact seniors, rural populations, and families, with concerns about increased costs being shifted onto families and providers. Senate Republicans are reportedly considering Medicare cuts, receiving tacit approval from Trump, as they push to reconcile their tax and spending proposals before a legislative deadline.

Simultaneously, the Social Security Administration faces operational challenges including staffing shortages and proposed service reductions, which could negatively affect benefit applications and customer service, especially in rural areas. Trump’s previous budget proposals during his presidency consistently included substantial cuts to these entitlement programs despite public statements to the contrary. This ongoing policy debate underscores the tension between fiscal reform efforts and the preservation of critical social insurance programs in the U.S.