Amy Klobuchar, United States Senator from Minnesota | Twitter
Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, along with Senators Amy Klobuchar, Ron Wyden, and Jeff Merkley, have led the entire Senate Democratic Caucus in urging Senate Majority Leader John Thune to reconsider proposed Republican cuts to health care and food assistance. The Democrats argue that these cuts would negatively impact millions of Americans, including vulnerable groups such as seniors, children, people with disabilities, and veterans.
"If enacted, these cuts to food assistance and health care will mean widespread hardship for Americans," stated the Senators. They emphasized that the proposed measures could weaken state and local governments and adversely affect rural hospitals, nursing homes, community health centers, farmers, independent grocers, and food banks.
The letter addressed to Senator Thune criticizes a bill passed by the U.S. House of Representatives which aims to terminate health insurance for millions while providing tax breaks for wealthy individuals and corporations. "Congress should be enacting policies that lower costs," urged the Senators.
The letter was signed by all 47 members of the Senate Democratic Caucus. They highlighted concerns about potential increases in premiums and health care costs due to the proposed $1 trillion in cuts targeting Medicaid and dismantling parts of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The Congressional Budget Office has indicated that these cuts could result in 16 million people losing their health coverage.
Additionally, Democrats expressed concern over nearly $300 billion in proposed cuts to SNAP benefits. These reductions could lead to over 3 million Americans losing their food assistance entirely due to stricter eligibility requirements.
The Democratic leaders called on Senator Thune to reject the House's approach and collaborate on solutions aimed at reducing costs while ensuring access to essential services like health care and nutrition.
