GOP House Leaders Urge Members to Stay Vague in Medicaid Debate

Punchbowl News reports that the House Republican leadership has urged lawmakers not to draw red lines when it comes to Medicaid cuts.

Some Republican Congressmen, particularly in battleground districts, have expressed concerns about the amount of Medicaid that will be cut to pay for the reconciliation package. They are worried this will anger their constituencies who rely on Medicaid.

Punchbowl stated that moderates, in response to the leadership’s message, have toned down statements about Medicaid cuts.

A copy of an exchange obtained by Punchbowl shows that while Rep. David Valadao (R-Calif.) wrote to House Energy and Committee Chairman Brett Guthrie (R-Ky.) and House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), he expressed his concern about Medicaid cuts, but he made no specific demands.

Punchbowl reported that Rep. Nick LaLota (R-N.Y.) is still deciding if he will send a letter describing what he opposes in the bill.

Punchbowl sources said that the House Republican leadership believes it can save Medicaid without making drastic cuts, and that moderates will give them space to accomplish these goals.

Together with the Energy and Commerce Committee, they have pledged to cut $880 billion in programs, including Medicaid. Punchbowl reports that the committee will start marking up their section of the package on Wednesday, May 7th.