The Trump Administration's proposed $880 billion cuts to Medicaid could have long-lasting effects for millions of Americans and Democratic lawmakers are urging Republicans to avoid gutting those programs.
On Thursday, Minnesota Representatives Ilhan Omar and Kelly Morrison spoke at Hennepin County Medical Center urging Republicans to vote against cutting millions of dollars from the program, noting that just in Minnesota alone, over one million people rely on Medicaid.
"We need Republicans in Congress who have the majority and control the agenda, to stand with the people of Minnesota, to stand with the American people, to put people's health care over tax cuts for billionaires," Morrison said.
Morrison was joined by people who made the case the program is essential.
"Please support your Congress people and let them know that we really need this, I've been a long time patient here, I don't know what I would do without it," said Joel.
"I had a congenital heart defect. They were able to save my life and that was here at this hospital," says Linda.
Linda and Joel are just two examples of how the proposed cuts might put others like them in danger according to Morrison.
"This is the sixth local hospital or clinic that I've visited and spoken with, in just the last couple of weeks," Rep. Morrison explained. "All of whom are terrified what these proposed cuts to Medicaid would mean. We only need three Republicans in Congress to stand up to President Trump and Elon Musk and say no to cuts to Medicaid. This is not a Democratic or Republican issue. This is an everyone issue. It's a Minnesota issue. It's an American issue."
On Thursday, Minnesota DFL legislators introduced legislation that would raise taxes on millionaires at the level necessary to offset any cuts to the program.
Republicans who control Congress are reportedly weighing cuts to Medicaid, the popular federal-state insurance program that provides health and long-term care to millions of Americans. Lawmakers have indicated the cuts would help pay for President Donald Trump's tax policy, which is expected to include permanent tax breaks for wealthy Americans.
On January 31, Trump said he would "love and cherish" Social Security and Medicare -- two programs that disproportionately provide financial support and care for older Americans -- as well as Medicaid.
"We're not going to do anything with that, unless we can find some abuse or waste," the president said. "The people won't be affected. It will only be more effective and better."
Nearly two weeks later, House Republicans formally tasked lawmakers who oversee the Medicaid budget to slash at least $880 billion in spending over 10 years.
Medicaid serves about one in five Americans, and its supporters note it was not a key policy discussion between the major party candidates during the 2024 presidential campaign.
On the receiving end of potential reductions to Medicaid are people: families -- in particular pregnant people, mothers, caregivers and children. Some of these children also have complex medical needs and disabilities that advocates say could be impacted if the federal government halts some of its existing financial support.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.