Here’s what Americans need to know.
Work Requirements Delayed Until 2029? Fiscal Hawks Say That’s Unacceptable
President Trump’s latest budget proposal is facing sharp pushback from House conservatives, who warn that the plan lacks the serious Medicaid reforms needed to rein in spending and protect America’s future. With the national debt topping $34 trillion, many are asking: Why aren’t we doing more now?
“Frankly, we’re rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic,” said Rep. Eric Burlison (R-MO), a leading voice in the House Freedom Caucus. “This bill just doesn’t go far enough.”
$880 Billion in Cuts—But Is It Real?
According to the Congressional Budget Office, the proposed plan could cut over $880 billion in federal spending by 2034. But many conservatives are skeptical of what they call “Washington math.”
“I don’t trust the numbers. We have a $2 trillion deficit, and these are just surface-level tweaks,” Burlison added.
Key Concerns for Fiscal Conservatives:
- Work requirements delayed until 2029 – critics call it “laughable”
- No changes to Medicaid funding formulas that reward states for overspending
- Able-bodied adults still receive more federal aid than pregnant women or the elderly
- Millions could lose coverage, sparking pushback from moderates
“It’s like telling your adult child living in your basement to get a job—but giving them four years to do it,” said Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD).
Hard-Liners Demand Action Now
Rep. Warren Davidson (R-OH) warned that delaying real reforms is a recipe for failure. “Kicking the can down the road is how we got into this mess in the first place,” he said. “We need deep, immediate cuts—not promises for five years from now.”
Rep. Keith Self (R-TX) accused some states of “laundering” money through Medicaid by gaming the federal matching formula. “We pay 90% for able-bodied adults but only 57% for seniors and disabled Americans. That’s a broken system,” he said.
Growing Divide Within the GOP
While conservative lawmakers want bold action, moderates in swing districts are growing nervous. They fear the political fallout of millions potentially losing health coverage just before election season.
Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY) says he and others successfully blocked the most extreme cuts. “We’re still reviewing the bill, but thankfully some of the harshest measures didn’t make it through,” he noted.
SALT Cap Battle Heats Up
In addition to the Medicaid fight, GOP lawmakers are also divided over the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap. Moderates from high-tax states want the cap raised to help their constituents. Fiscal hawks say any increase must be offset elsewhere—or it will balloon the deficit.
“You can’t demand tax relief and oppose spending cuts in the same breath,” Burlison said. “If you want SALT relief, pay for it.”
Speaker Johnson: “This Is All Part of the Process”
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is walking a tightrope. “No, the goalposts aren’t moving,” he said when asked about conservative backlash. “Everyone’s voicing their views—and that’s how we arrive at a final product.”
Bottom Line: America’s Debt Crisis Isn’t Waiting—Why Are Our Leaders?
Conservative lawmakers are urging fellow Republicans to stand firm on real spending cuts and restore fiscal discipline before it’s too late. With inflation, interest rates, and national debt all rising, Americans 50 and older know what’s at stake.
Stay informed, stay engaged—and hold your representatives accountable.