Resistance Grows as Proposed Cuts Threaten Health Care for Over 79 Million in US

In the latest wave of political and economic debates, proposed cuts to federal health care programs have ignited a firestorm of opposition across the United States. At stake is the well-being of over 79 million Americans who rely on government-supported health services, particularly Medicaid and Medicare. These proposed reductions, aimed at curbing federal spending, have drawn sharp criticism from health professionals, advocacy groups, and ordinary citizens alike, who warn of devastating consequences for public health.

The Biden administration and Congress are currently locked in tense budget negotiations, with some lawmakers pushing for deep reductions in entitlement programs to address the national deficit. Critics argue that these cuts would disproportionately impact vulnerable populations — including the elderly, low-income families, children, and individuals with disabilities — many of whom rely entirely on these programs for access to medical care.

According to data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Medicaid alone covers more than 76 million people in the U.S., while Medicare provides essential services to approximately 66 million older adults and individuals with disabilities. Any significant reduction in funding could mean fewer covered services, reduced access to specialists, longer wait times, and even the closure of some health care facilities, particularly in underserved rural and urban areas.

Health care professionals warn that slashing funding would strain an already overburdened system. "This isn't just about numbers in a budget — it's about real people who could lose life-saving care," said Dr. Angela Martinez, a primary care physician in Houston. "We’re already seeing the effects of provider shortages and underfunded clinics. Further cuts could break the system."

Beyond health care professionals, community organizations and advocacy groups are mobilizing to resist the proposed changes. The National Health Care for All Coalition, along with dozens of regional organizations, has organized rallies in Washington, D.C., New York, and several other major cities. Their message is clear: access to affordable health care is a human right, not a privilege to be negotiated away.

“Cuts to Medicaid and Medicare are a direct attack on working families, seniors, and the disabled,” said coalition spokesperson Karen Willis. “People will go without their insulin, without cancer treatments, without mental health care. This is not acceptable in the richest country on Earth.”

The resistance is also gaining traction among voters. Recent polls show that a majority of Americans — across party lines — oppose cuts to Medicare and Medicaid. A Gallup survey from March 2025 revealed that 68% of respondents believe the government should increase health care funding, not reduce it. Many citizens are contacting their representatives, urging them to protect health care programs that have become lifelines in their communities.

Meanwhile, some lawmakers are advocating for alternative solutions to reduce the deficit without slashing health care. Proposals include increasing taxes on the wealthiest Americans, reducing military spending, and closing corporate tax loopholes. These ideas, while politically contentious, reflect a growing recognition that the budget cannot be balanced on the backs of the most vulnerable.

The fight over these proposed cuts is far from over. As Congress continues to negotiate the federal budget, health care advocates are promising to maintain pressure and raise public awareness. Town halls, petitions, and digital campaigns are helping to amplify the voices of those most affected — the millions of Americans who could soon be facing a grim reality if funding is withdrawn.

In the words of 72-year-old retired teacher Gloria Jenkins from Ohio, “I’ve paid into Medicare my whole life. Now, when I need it most, they want to take it away? I won’t let them do it quietly.”

As resistance grows, the future of health care for millions hangs in the balance. The next few months may prove pivotal — not only for the nation's fiscal path, but for the health and dignity of millions of its citizens.