Rep. Has Not Shown Plan For “Fighting” Medicaid Cuts That Threaten Care for Cancer Patients, People With Serious Illnesses

PENNSYLVANIA – Congressman Rob Bresnahan recently claimed he will “fight” the deep cuts to Medicaid he voted for last summer, despite previously defending his vote. But too little is too late for his most vulnerable constituents, who were depending on Rep. Bresnahan, who said he would not vote for a bill that “guts the benefits my neighbors rely on.”

A new Trump Administration rule implementing those cuts is expected to further restrict Medicaid eligibility and could result in thousands more people losing health care coverage starting January 2027.

“Congressman Bresnahan attempting to backpedal on his vote doesn’t change anything for his constituents and amounts to breaking a window and apologizing after the cold air has come in,” said Rachele Fortier, Executive Director of Affordable Pennsylvania. “He told constituents one thing and then voted for policies that are doing the opposite. Families in Northeastern Pennsylvania deserve a straight answer about what he plans to do now that those cuts are becoming reality. Affordable Pennsylvania is calling on constituents across NEPA to contact Congressman Bresnahan and demand answers about his vote and his plan to protect access to health care.”

In Northeastern Pennsylvania, where Medicaid covers over 200,000 residents, the stakes are especially high. Health advocates warn that rural hospitals and safety net providers are already under strain and could face further pressure if coverage declines continue.

“Congressman Bresnahan promised me he wouldn't cut Medicaid and SNAP, and then he voted to do exactly that,” said Krysten, a Scranton home health aide who relies on both programs herself. “Now he's admitting these cuts could hurt people, but words won't restore someone's health care. I want answers. What is his plan to stop cancer patients and people with serious illnesses from losing coverage because of a vote he cast? Families in Northeastern Pennsylvania deserve more than regrets after the damage is already done.”

The public comment period on the Medicaid rule is open through July 31, 2026, and advocates are encouraging Pennsylvanians impacted by rising health care costs and coverage loss concerns to submit comments.