“The best health care is a job,” Senate Majority Leader John Thune said during a debate on Medicaid work requirements.
During Senate deliberations on President Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill,” Majority Leader John Thune stated that “the best health care is a job,” citing employment-linked benefits as a pathway to coverage. Thune emphasized economic growth, saying, “A rising tide lifts all the boats.”
The Republican-backed proposal seeks to reduce government spending by requiring Medicaid recipients to work at least 80 hours monthly, barring medical exemptions. The Congressional Budget Office estimates up to 10 million could lose coverage if the work requirements are enforced.
Critics, including House Democrats, warn the bill targets vulnerable Americans to fund extended 2017 tax cuts. Senator Joni Ernst faced backlash at a town hall after responding to concerns with, “Well, we are all going to die.” Thune warned of a $1,700 tax hike for families earning $80,000 if Trump-era cuts aren’t preserved. The Senate continues to debate the bill, with a vote expected before the July 4 deadline.