While some core Republicans supporters urged lawmakers to hold fast in their budget fight with Democrats, other constituents were angry. Rep. Paul Ryan (R-Wis.), the author of the Medicare plan, was booed by constituents as he presented the proposal.
The proposal is not expected to pass the Democratic-controlled Senate, but it is sure to be an issue in next year’s elections for the House.
Rep. Charles Bass (R-N.H.) told constituents the country would be “basically ruined” if it did not curb the growth of government, but he was “quickly pushed him back on his heels” by a mostly gray-haired audience, complaining about the Medicare proposal. “By the time he left, he seemed less than wedded to the details,” the Pioneer Press reported.
Rep. Lou Barletta’s (R-Pa.) reminder that the Medicare changeover wouldn’t affect anyone over age 55 didn’t assuage some aging constituents. “You seem to think that because I’m not affected, I won’t care if my niece, my grandson, my child is affected. I do care,” one said. “You said nothing in the campaign about ‘I’m going to change Medicare.’ Now you voted for a plan that will destroy Medicare.”
Read the Pioneer Press report on Medicare.
Related Articles on Republican plans to revamp Medicare:
Newt Gingrich Backs Away From House Medicare Plan
Republican Plans for Medicare, Medicaid Could Decide 2012 Races
GOP Proposal Would Fundamentally Change Medicare, Medicaid
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
