Context:

Senator Josh Hawley argues against cutting Medicaid, emphasizing its importance for low-income Americans and the political risk for Republicans aiming to be a working-class party. He notes that Medicaid serves over 70 million people, including a significant portion of his constituents in Missouri, where voters have constitutionally mandated its expansion. Cutting Medicaid would not only harm individuals but also lead to hospital closures, mirroring issues across the country. Hawley highlights personal stories, such as a mother whose daughter relies on Medicaid for life-saving treatments not covered by private insurance. He cautions that ignoring the needs of working-class voters and following corporate interests could jeopardize the Republicans' chance of becoming a majority party focused on improving economic conditions for families.

Dive Deeper:

• Josh Hawley contends that Medicaid is crucial for low-income individuals, serving over 70 million Americans, including a significant number in Missouri, where voters demanded its expansion in 2020.

• Reducing Medicaid funding would result in widespread loss of health care for workers and children, and lead to hospital closures, particularly affecting rural healthcare providers dependent on such funding.

• A constituent's story illustrates Medicaid's importance, as the program covers essential medical expenses for her child that private insurance does not, preventing financial ruin and ensuring her daughter's survival.

• Hawley suggests that Republicans should focus on enhancing healthcare affordability, capping prescription drug costs, and providing tax cuts to families rather than cutting social insurance programs.

• Recent polling indicates strong public support for Medicaid across party lines, with a substantial percentage of Republicans opposing cuts, reflecting their reliance on such programs for economic stability.

• Hawley warns that following corporate-driven policies and cutting social programs could alienate the working-class voter base crucial for the Republicans' aim to become a majority party.

• The essay underscores the need for Republicans to address the economic challenges faced by working people, advocating for policies that support family formation, housing affordability, and improved wages.