The GOP’s “Big Beautiful Bill” Is a Catastrophic Betrayal of the American People

Republicans including South Carolina's Nancy Mace voted to Cut Medicaid for 1.1 Million South Carolinians

CUBNSC- Washington, D.C.

The GOP’s “Big Beautiful Bill” Is a Catastrophic Betrayal of the American People

In June 2024, approximately 1.1 million people in South Carolina were enrolled in the state's Medicaid program. This represents about 18.8% of the state's population in 2019.

South Carolina Representative Nancy Mace voted to cut Medicaid! 

On May 22, 2025, House Republicans, under the leadership of Speaker Mike Johnson, narrowly passed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (H.R. 1) by a single vote—215 to 214. This sweeping legislation, championed by former President Donald Trump, enacts deep cuts to essential social programs while extending tax breaks for the wealthy. Critics argue that the bill prioritizes the interests of the affluent over the needs of vulnerable Americans, particularly older adults, low-income families, and marginalized communities.

Key Provisions of the Bill:

• Medicaid Cuts: The bill slashes $698 billion from Medicaid over the next decade, introducing work requirements and increased cost-sharing for beneficiaries above the federal poverty line. These changes are projected to remove millions from coverage, disproportionately affecting seniors and disabled individuals who rely on Medicaid for long-term care.

• SNAP Reductions: Approximately $267 billion is cut from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), shifting administrative costs to states and imposing stricter eligibility requirements. This could result in 3 million households losing food assistance, exacerbating food insecurity among low-income families.

• Healthcare Access Restrictions: The legislation bans Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) from covering gender-affirming care for individuals of all ages. It also prohibits Medicaid funding for clinics that provide abortion services, even in cases of rape or incest.

• Tax Benefits for the Wealthy: The bill extends the 2017 Trump-era tax cuts and raises the state and local tax (SALT) deduction cap, primarily benefiting high-income households. It introduces new tax deductions for tips and overtime, but these are overshadowed by the broader tax advantages granted to the affluent.

• Increased Defense and Border Spending: An additional $150 billion is allocated to defense, including funding for uncrewed drones and other military technologies. The bill also designates $70 billion for border security measures, such as constructing barriers and enhancing surveillance, aiming to increase deportation capacity.

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Implications for the American People:

The passage of this bill has raised alarms among healthcare professionals, economists, and advocacy groups. The substantial cuts to Medicaid and SNAP threaten to destabilize the healthcare infrastructure, particularly impacting older adults who depend on these programs for medical and nutritional support. Furthermore, the bill’s provisions could lead to significant job losses in the healthcare sector, as reduced funding may force facilities to downsize or close. 

While members of Congress continue to receive comprehensive healthcare coverage funded by taxpayers, this legislation effectively reduces access to essential services for millions of Americans. The prioritization of tax benefits for the wealthy over the well-being of vulnerable populations has been criticized as a profound moral failing.

Conclusion:

The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” represents a significant shift in legislative priorities, favoring fiscal policies that benefit the affluent while undermining critical support systems for the nation’s most vulnerable citizens. As the bill moves to the Senate, it is imperative for constituents to engage with their representatives, advocate for equitable policies, and hold lawmakers accountable for decisions that profoundly affect the health and welfare of the American populace.