Sen. Joni Ernst Faces Backlash Over Controversial Medicaid Comments

PARKERSBURG, Iowa — Iowa Republican U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst apologized Saturday for remarks made during a town hall on Friday that sparked widespread criticism. When questioned about cuts to Medicaid, she dismissively told an audience member, “Well, we all are going to die.”

In a video posted on her Instagram story, Ernst addressed the backlash while walking in a cemetery, stating, “Hello everyone. I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely apologize for a statement that I made yesterday at my town hall.” She acknowledged the audience’s concerns and clarified her intentions.

“I made an incorrect assumption that everyone in the auditorium understood that yes, we are all going to perish from this Earth,” Ernst said in the video, which has circulated widely online. She went on to encourage viewers to embrace her “lord and savior, Jesus Christ” for those seeking eternal life.

The comments were met with jeers and boos from the audience at the town hall, where Ernst faced intense scrutiny over her support for proposed cuts to public health insurance and food assistance programs, particularly Medicaid and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).

While discussing the Medicaid eligibility changes included in a tax package supported by Republicans, Ernst was interrupted by a voice from the audience shouting, “people will die.” Her response only fueled the audience’s discontent.

Ernst later defended her position, stating, “Medicaid is extremely important here in the state of Iowa,” and emphasized that funding should support those who meet the eligibility requirements. Her comments have drawn national attention and criticism from Democrats, who warn that the proposed changes could significantly impact health care access for many Americans.

As part of the GOP-backed federal budget, a $625 billion cut to Medicaid is proposed, which would impose work requirements on certain able-bodied adults. Critics, including various Democratic politicians, argue that this could lead to more people losing their coverage.

Democratic Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut responded to Ernst’s comments by stating, “They would just rather die in old age at 85 or 90 instead of dying at 40,” highlighting the harsh realities facing many in underserved communities. The proposed changes to Medicaid could affect 58,084 recipients in Iowa alone, according to estimates.

As discussions continue over the legislation, Ernst labeled the backlash as “hysteria,” insisting that the aim is to extend tax benefits for working Iowans while preserving Medicaid for eligible individuals. She stated, “We don’t need to see illegal immigrants receiving benefits that should be going to Iowans.” With the controversy ongoing, Ernst’s comments and the implications of the proposed Medicaid cuts remain under scrutiny.