Medicaid Rollbacks Fuel Rise in Uninsured, CBO Data Shows

The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) reported that the House version of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act may significantly lower Medicaid enrollment and could lead to millions lacking insurance by 2034. Contrary to assertions by National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett, the CBO indicated that the “5 million” projected to lose coverage would not all remain insured.Hassett overstated the CBO's figures concerning those retaining some level of insurance post-Medicaid loss. Notably, individuals losing Medicaid may retain Medicare benefits but still face challenges. Critics highlighted that some within the “5 million” category would not secure alternative coverage, mainly due to cost factors.During a “Face the Nation” interview, Hassett’s claims were challenged, explaining that 7.8 million could become entirely uninsured due to the bill's provisions, with the overall uninsured rate climbing by 10.9 million. Thus, Hassett mischaracterized the CBO's findings regarding insurance loss.