Sen. Thom Tillis Criticizes GOP Budget Bill and President Trump
In a bold move following his retirement announcement, Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina has openly criticized his party’s budget proposal and President Donald Trump’s endorsement of it.
Tillis highlighted concerns over the bill’s proposed reductions to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act, which could potentially strip health insurance from up to 11.8 million individuals.
“I am telling the president that you have been misinformed,” Tillis declared in a passionate speech on the Senate floor. “You supporting the Senate [bill] will hurt people who are eligible and qualified for Medicaid.”
The proposed legislation, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, seeks to reduce trillions in discretionary spending to fund tax reductions for wealthy individuals and large businesses. Key healthcare changes include stricter work requirements for Medicaid, limitations on state Medicaid funding, and the expiration of tax credits for private health insurance.
Tillis was among the few Republicans opposing the bill’s advancement in the Senate, casting one of only two dissenting votes. His decision not to run for re-election appears influenced by the potential political repercussions if the bill is enacted.
In North Carolina, approximately 3 million people rely on Medicaid. President Trump had promised multiple times not to support Medicaid cuts.
“What do I tell 663,000 people, in two years or three years, when President Donald Trump breaks his promise by pushing them off Medicaid?” Tillis questioned. “Republicans are about to make a mistake.”
The Senate is anticipated to pass the bill later this week, after which it will return to the House for further discussion. Although Trump aimed to sign the bill by July 4, the timeline has shifted to July 7.
Several Republicans have shown interest in Tillis’ Senate seat, including Representatives Tim Moore, Richard Hudson, and Lara Trump, the president’s daughter-in-law.
Former Representative Wiley Nickel stands as the leading Democrat contender in the race. Additionally, there is speculation that former Governor Roy Cooper might enter the contest.
“No matter which MAGA loyalist Donald Trump hand-picks to run in North Carolina, I’m the Democrat who’s ready to take them on and win,” Nickel stated. “North Carolinians are independent-minded and won’t be fooled by extremists pushing an agenda that puts billionaires first and working families last.”
Tillis’ recent focus on healthcare marks a shift from his previous stance. He had opposed Medicaid expansion in North Carolina under the ACA and consistently voted against the law.
The Cook Political Report has labeled the race to succeed Tillis as a “toss-up,” indicating a competitive contest.
The post Thom Tillis turns on Trump, warns GOP bill “will hurt people” appeared first on American Journal News.
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