As Congress plans significant spending cuts, there is growing anxiety over potential reductions to Medicaid, which could affect millions across various states. Residents in Republican districts, including California, are feeling particularly betrayed as looming health care cuts threaten hospitals, services for the poor, and essential maternal care. Opinions are sharply divided, with some officials and healthcare advocates urging Congress to protect Medicaid while Republican lawmakers cite budget constraints as a reason to move forward with cuts. The Congressional Budget Office has indicated that meeting budget targets will likely necessitate reductions to Medicaid, raising alarms about the potential consequences for rural healthcare and low-income families. Nationwide, hundreds have rallied to protest these proposed cuts, emphasizing the impact on vulnerable populations, including chronic pain patients and those struggling with addiction. As this debate unfolds, the future of Medicaid remains uncertain and controversial.