In a significant policy shift, U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson has indicated that the Republican party may pursue cuts to Medicaid, contradicting earlier assurances from GOP leaders, including former President Donald Trump [1][2][3].

Speaking on Fox News' Sunday Morning Futures, Johnson stated, "We have to root out fraud, waste and abuse, we have to eliminate on, for example, on Medicaid who are not actually eligible to be there. Able-bodied workers, for example, young men, who are– who should never be on the program at all" [1][2][3].

This statement marks a departure from Johnson's previous position. As recently as February, he had asserted, "we're not going to touch Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid" [1][2][3]. The new stance suggests a potential change in the upcoming GOP budget proposal.

Johnson attempted to clarify the party's position, stating, "The president has made absolutely clear many times, as we have as well, that we're going to protect Medicare, Social Security, Medicaid, for people who are legally beneficiaries of those programs" [3]. This statement introduces a distinction between those deemed "legally eligible" and others who might face cuts.

The shift in policy has raised concerns among Democrats and healthcare advocates about the potential impact on millions of Americans who rely on Medicaid for healthcare coverage. It also sets the stage for a contentious debate as budget negotiations approach.

As this story develops, it remains to be seen how this policy shift will affect upcoming budget proposals and negotiations between Republicans and Democrats in Congress.