Trump said in an interview with Elon Musk that he wouldn't touch Medicaid. Hours later he endorsed a GOP plan that could slash the program.

President Donald Trump has repeatedly expressed uneasiness about cuts to Medicaid.

Joe Raedle/Getty Images

• President Do... ## President Trump's Conditional Support for Medicaid Amidst Proposed Budget Cuts ### Introduction President Donald Trump has expressed mixed messages regarding proposed Medicaid cuts, initially assuring its protection and later endorsing a House Republican budget plan that could potentially reduce the program's funding. ### Medicaid and Republican Budget Plan The House GOP budget outline proposes significant spending cuts, including potential reductions to Medicaid. Medicaid is a vital healthcare program that provides coverage for over 70 million Americans, including low-income individuals and those with disabilities. ### Trump's Conflicting Statements During an interview with Elon Musk, Trump stated that he would not "touch" Medicaid. However, he subsequently endorsed the House budget plan, which could lead to billions in Medicaid reductions. ### Medicaid's Importance and Potential Impact of Cuts Medicaid is a critical safety net for millions of Americans, covering essential healthcare services. Cuts to the program could have a devastating impact on recipients, potentially restricting access to necessary care or forcing them to seek alternative and potentially more expensive funding methods. ### Republican Motivations and Reconciliation Process Republican leaders are pushing for spending cuts to fund tax reductions and other initiatives. They have employed a special budget process known as reconciliation, which allows them to pass legislation without Democratic support. ### Senate Republicans' Counterproposal Senate Republicans have proposed a different budget plan that excludes tax cuts. They intend to extend existing tax cuts and consider further reductions later in the year. ### Trump's Endorsement and Senate's Response Trump's endorsement of the House budget plan has drawn criticism from Senate Democrats, who contend that it would lead to significant Medicaid cuts. Senate Republicans have expressed a desire to move forward with their own plan before responding to the House version. ### The Future of Medicaid The fate of Medicaid remains uncertain as Congress navigates the budget process. The Trump administration has stated its commitment to protecting Medicaid while pursuing reforms to reduce waste and fraud. However, it is unclear how these objectives can be achieved without affecting the program's coverage or benefits.