Lawler Votes for Cuts to Medicare, Social Security, and Food Assistance

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In a guest editorial, Wendy Holtzman criticizes Congressman Mike Lawler for voting in favor of policy changes that have shortened the financial lifespans of Medicare and Social Security, and resulted in thousands of his constituents losing food assistance. Holtzman also condemns Lawler's votes to increase funding for ICE, which she says has led to inhumane conditions and abuses at immigration detention centers.

Why it matters

The policy changes supported by Lawler are having a direct impact on seniors and working families in his district, with thousands losing critical social safety net programs like Medicare, Social Security, and food assistance. This raises concerns about Lawler's priorities and whether he is adequately representing the needs of his constituents.

The details

Holtzman notes that in Lawler's Congressional district, CD17, there are 133,200 people 65 and older, about 17% of total residents. She says the CBO has projected the Medicare trust fund will be depleted by 2040 and the Social Security trust fund by 2031, due in part to the tax cut policies Lawler voted for. Additionally, 10,000 of Lawler's constituents will lose food assistance, and 2.4 million people nationwide. Holtzman also criticizes Lawler's votes to increase funding for ICE, which she says has led to inhumane conditions and abuses at immigration detention centers.

• In March 2025, the CBO estimated the Medicare trust fund would be solvent until 2052.
• In 2026, the CBO updated its projections, saying the Medicare trust fund will be depleted in 2040.
• The CBO also expects the Social Security trust fund to run dry by the end of 2031.

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.