Rep. Veasey Blasts Republicans for Silencing Lung Cancer Survivor at Medicaid Hearing

May 13, 2025 Press Release Washington D.C.- In a disturbing escalation of Republican efforts to gut Medicaid behind closed doors, Republicans on the Energy & Commerce Committee tonight silenced a constituent and lung cancer survivor who dared to speak out against their disastrous healthcare cuts that would be a death warrant for millions of Americans. Carla, a Texan and daughter of a WWII Veteran, dialed into the E&C Committee’s hearing to share her powerful story —how she lost her health insurance after the startup she worked for collapsed, and how Medicaid became her only lifeline after being diagnosed with lung cancer . Rather than listen, Republicans cut her off and attempted to reprimand Congressman Veasey for standing up for her right to be heard. Why the censorship? Because Republicans are pushing a $715 billion tax cut for billionaires—paid for by slashing Medicaid and ripping healthcare away from millions of Americans . And they’re doing it in secret: scheduling the Medicaid portion of the hearing in the dead of night to bury the news and avoid accountability. “They’re not just cowards—they’re liars,” said Congressman Veasey. “They’re lying about Medicaid. They’re too scared to face their own constituents at town halls, and too ashamed to defend their cuts in daylight. They tried to silence Carla—but I (we) won’t be silenced. If Republicans won’t defend Medicaid or the people who rely on it, then I will. To Trump and Republicans: STOP CAPPIN’.” From running away from the American people to shutting down voices in committee , Republicans are proving they can’t defend their own actions—because they know the truth would infuriate the voters they’re betraying. Congressman Veasey and Democrats vow to keep fighting back—loudly, publicly, and relentlessly —because Medicaid should not be a sacrifice for billionaires’ tax breaks . Rep. Veasey repeatedly called out Republicans for lying to the American people about Medicaid. Issues : Protect ACA/ Reproductive Rights Energy and Infrastructure Human Rights Seniors Minority Issues Veterans Women's Rights Health and Fitness