Senate Republicans are quietly weighing possible changes to Medicare as a way to reduce the cost burden of a major tax and spending package currently under debate. In recent private meetings, including one with the president, lawmakers discussed trimming wasteful spending from federal health programs in response to new estimates showing the bill could add trillions to the national debt over the next decade.
The idea of touching Medicare often considered a political third rail has sparked concern among members of both parties. One senator bluntly warned that such a move could have lasting consequences for electoral prospects, citing historical examples of similar efforts backfiring on Republicans in the past.
While outright benefit cuts are off the table, some lawmakers are exploring targeted changes to Medicare Advantage plans. These reforms would aim to crack down on overbilling tactics used by insurers, such as classifying patients as more seriously ill than they are in order to collect higher reimbursements.
The proposal under review would not affect basic Medicare benefits but would instead focus on reducing inflated payments to private insurance providers. Lawmakers say this approach could lead to billions in savings without harming patient care or coverage.
Still, the suggestion is already drawing skepticism, particularly from those who argue it’s being used to bankroll tax cuts and other provisions of the larger legislation. Health insurers and advocacy groups are also expected to push back, raising the stakes as negotiations continue.
Amid mounting fiscal pressure and limited bipartisan agreement on broader spending reforms, the future of the proposed changes remains uncertain. But the growing urgency to close funding gaps is likely to keep the conversation going.