House Republicans Debate Major Tax Cuts and Benefit Program Cuts

WASHINGTON – House Republicans defended a bill that proposes significant tax cuts and raises the debt ceiling during a marathon day of committee hearings on Capitol Hill. The legislation is part of a massive package set to advance President Trump’s agenda on May 13. Three key panels, including the Ways and Means Committee and the House Agriculture Committee, evaluated the legislation.

Democrats criticized the proposed package, branding it as a giveaway to the wealthy that jeopardizes benefit programs like Medicaid and food assistance. The hearings are expected to extend into the night, with the Medicaid hearing potentially breaking the record of 27 consecutive hours spent debating in 2017.

As discussions began, protesters outside the hearing room chanted, “No cuts to Medicaid!” Twenty-six individuals were arrested for obstructing the proceedings, according to U.S. Capitol Police. Representative Frank Pallone, D-New Jersey, emphasized the gravity of the proposed cuts, stating, “People feel very strongly because they know they’re losing their healthcare.”

An analysis by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimated that the Medicaid changes could leave millions without health insurance over the next decade. This, they noted, could save around $625 billion in federal spending, which Republicans hope will offset lost revenue from the tax cuts.

Tensions ran high during the Energy and Commerce hearing as Republicans argued for the necessity of eliminating waste and fraud to protect those who truly need Medicaid. “Medicaid was created to provide health care for Americans who otherwise could not support themselves,” said Rep. Brett Guthrie, R-Kentucky, the committee chairman.

Democrats shared testimonies from individuals potentially impacted by these changes. “For months, Republicans told the American people that their budget would not cut Medicaid,” said Rep. Nanette Barragán, D-California. “That is not true.” Republicans countered these claims, insisting that most vulnerable populations would remain protected.

The House Ways and Means Committee also debated the tax proposals, which include making cuts permanent and increasing the standard deduction and child tax credit. Democrats condemned the measures as further benefits for billionaires, raising concerns about the legislation favoring the wealthy.

As an example, Rep. Richard Neal, D-Massachusetts, stated, “So here we are, one big beautiful tax cut for billionaires.” Republicans defended their case, pointing out that many provisions would also benefit working-class Americans.

The House Agriculture Committee evaluated changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as SNAP. The Republican plan would enforce new work requirements and limit eligibility to lawful residents. Advocates argue the proposal could push millions of low-income individuals out of the program.

“You don’t build a life on SNAP,” said Rep. Angie Craig, D-Minnesota, stressing the program’s importance. The nonpartisan analysis suggests these reforms might cut $300 billion over the next decade, far exceeding the instructed elimination of $230 billion.