by Republican Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick voted in favor of President Trump’s 2025 budget bill, which aims to reduce Medicaid and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) spending by nearly $1 trillion.
The bill narrowly passed the House 215-214, moving next to the Republican-controlled Senate, despite concerns over its impact on millions of Americans.
What Happened
On Thursday morning, the House approved President Trump’s budget proposal, dubbed the “big, beautiful bill,” which includes massive cuts to Medicaid and SNAP benefits. Fitzpatrick’s vote was decisive, as the bill passed by just one vote.
While some Republicans, including Thomas Massie (KY) and Warren Davidson (OH), opposed the bill, Fitzpatrick sided with the GOP leadership and President Trump. This decision has drawn criticism from Democrats and advocacy groups alike.
Key Details
- The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates the bill will cut federal Medicaid spending by $698 billion, potentially causing 8.6 million Americans to lose health coverage by 2034.
- SNAP spending would be reduced by $267 billion, resulting in 3 million fewer monthly recipients of food stamps.
- The bill imposes new work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents, including 80 hours of monthly work or community engagement.
- Parents of children older than 7 may also be subject to these work mandates.
- The bill extends roughly $4.5 trillion in tax breaks for wealthy households, increasing deficits by $3.8 trillion.
Reactions or Statements
Bob Harvie, a Democrat running against Fitzpatrick, accused him of obeying Trump without standing up for vulnerable communities. Harvie called the vote “cowardice” and urged Fitzpatrick to step aside.
SEIU Healthcare PA Union President Matthew Yarnell criticized the bill’s impact on Bucks County families, veterans, seniors, and disabled people, calling it “un-American.”
Sharon Parrott, President of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, warned the bill would deepen poverty and hunger, especially among children, and noted some states might drop SNAP programs entirely due to harsh provisions.
The Democratic National Committee’s Abhi Rahman labeled the budget “a billionaire giveaway paid for by Pennsylvania seniors,” highlighting the disparity between tax cuts for the wealthy and cuts to essential social programs.
Investigation or What’s Next
Following the bill’s passage in the House, Fitzpatrick promised to work with the Senate to “make constructive changes” to the energy, workforce, and health provisions, aiming to strengthen Medicaid and SNAP solvency and protect vulnerable populations.
However, many remain skeptical, pointing to the CBO’s projections and the bill’s potential to reduce access to health care and nutrition for tens of thousands in Fitzpatrick’s district alone. Statewide, the numbers at risk are even higher.
The bill now heads to the Senate, where its fate remains uncertain amid ongoing debates over the scale of cuts and tax breaks.
FAQs
Q1: How much will Medicaid spending be cut under this bill?
A1: Approximately $698 billion in federal Medicaid spending cuts are projected by 2034.
Q2: Who will be affected by the new SNAP work requirements?
A2: Able-bodied adults without dependents up to age 64 will need to work or participate in community activities for 80 hours per month to qualify.
Q3: How many people in Fitzpatrick’s district could lose health care coverage?
A3: Estimates suggest about 12,000 constituents may lose coverage, with 15,000 at risk of losing some or all SNAP benefits.
Q4: What are the tax implications of this budget?
A4: The bill extends $4.5 trillion in tax breaks, mostly benefiting wealthy households, increasing federal deficits by $3.8 trillion.
Q5: What are Fitzpatrick’s stated priorities regarding this bill?
A5: He claims to seek long-term solvency for Medicaid and SNAP, with “red lines” before final bill support, though critics question this stance.
Summary / Final Takeaway
Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick’s vote for President Trump’s 2025 budget bill has stirred controversy in Pennsylvania. The bill’s sweeping cuts to Medicaid and SNAP threaten health care and food security for millions.
While the bill promises tax breaks for the wealthy, many Pennsylvania families face reduced access to essential services. Fitzpatrick’s assurances to negotiate changes in the Senate are yet to be tested as this critical legislation moves forward.
