Overview
- House Speaker Mike Johnson said on a Louisiana radio show Thursday that Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security are on “autopilot” and that Republicans “have a plan” to adjust those programs next year.
- The comments drew sharp criticism from analysts and commentators who called the move a major political mistake because cutting Social Security is broadly unpopular with voters.
- Johnson later described coverage of his remarks as fearmongering and defended claims of widespread waste, fraud and abuse in federal programs without offering policy details.
- Reporting noted a contrast between Johnson’s rhetoric and recent GOP actions, pointing out that Republican-backed bills have cut Medicaid and added to deficits according to the Congressional Budget Office.
- Policy experts cite the Social Security Trustees’ data and economists who say the program’s shortfall is modest and could be addressed by revenue or targeted changes, and Johnson’s promised plan will increase pressure on Republicans as the midterms approach.