#United States #College Park #Medicaid #EITC #Snap

Public Opinion: Strong Bipartisan Opposition to Medicaid Cuts

In a recent survey conducted by the University of Maryland's Program for Public Consultation (PPC), the American public has expressed overwhelming opposition to cuts in federal assistance, especially concerning Medicaid. This bipartisan resistance underscores a significant cultural stance among many citizens from both major political parties, emphasizing their collective support for programs that aid low-income households.

Key Findings of the Survey

According to the survey, which gathered insights from a representative sample of 1,195 adults between April 4 and 9, 2025, a remarkable 81% of respondents indicated they favor either maintaining or increasing funding for Medicaid. This includes 75% of Republicans and 86% of Democrats, demonstrating a rare unity on a contentious political issue.

Among those surveyed, 55% expressed a desire for increased Medicaid spending, which would allow for expanded coverage of services or enrollment of more beneficiaries. Notably, 65% of Democrats support this increase, and nearly half (49%) of Republicans are on board as well. In sharp contrast, only 19% of participants favored reducing Medicaid funding.

State Participation in Medicaid Expansion

The survey shed light on public attitudes towards state participation in the Medicaid expansion program. Notably, 75% of respondents in states that have not adopted Medicaid expansion support joining the program, comprising 69% of Republicans and 82% of Democrats. In states that have already expanded Medicaid, support is even higher, with 87% in favor, including 83% of Republicans and an impressive 94% of Democrats.

Support for SNAP and EITC

In addition to Medicaid, the survey explored sentiments regarding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps. Currently, the federal government allocates $94 billion annually toward SNAP benefits. The majority of respondents (86%) supported increasing benefits for individuals living alone, with a median suggested increase from $170 to $250 monthly. Similarly, 70% of respondents favored raising benefits for single mothers, suggesting an increase from $530 to $600.

Interestingly, half of the participants proposed lifting the current savings limit for SNAP recipients, who are not allowed more than $3,000 in savings.

Nutrition and Health Initiatives

Regarding the health implications of food purchased through SNAP, a clear majority overall (53-72%) opposed restricting the purchase of sugary items like soda and candy using SNAP benefits, indicating a shift from previous polls where a majority supported such restrictions. In a positive turn, an overwhelming 90% supported initiatives to discount fruits and vegetables purchased with SNAP benefits, advocating for healthier choices even if it increases program costs.

Expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

Further supporting low-income workers, the sentiment around the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) also reveals broad bipartisan support. 69% of those surveyed favor proposals to double the maximum tax credit available to low-income workers, followed by 66% who endorse lowering the eligibility age from 25 to 21. Additionally, 66% supported increasing income eligibility limits for qualifying individuals and couples.

Conclusion

This survey highlights a crucial aspect of American public opinion: despite the political push from Washington for cuts to welfare programs, there exists a significant appetite for maintaining or even increasing aid for low-income citizens. The level of bipartisan support for Medicaid and SNAP benefits signifies a potential shift in how policymakers might approach these critical programs moving forward. As the government engages in discussions about budget priorities, the voices of the American public continue to underscore the need for compassion and support for the vulnerable segments of society.