06/02/2025
Ernst has proposed cutting Medicare and Medicaid, particularly for undocumented immigrants. It is likely she is aware that this population may require medical attention at some point, and without access to covered primary care, they will necessitate emergency room care. Since it is illegal (and unethical) to deny critically ill patients treatment due to lack of insurance, the costs will be shifted to those with health insurance, or else the hospital may be forced to close. In Missouri, 9-10 hospitals have shut down since 2020.
Republican Sen. Joni Ernst is facing backlash after saying “we all are going to die” while talking about potential changes to Medicaid eligibility at a town hall in north-central Iowa.
