On the recordOctober 18, 2017
I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment. This amendment would increase mandatory spending and taxes each by more than $1 trillion. I understand my colleagues are concerned about Medicaid. I want to assure them that this budget is focused on preserving Medicaid for those who need it most, but in order to preserve Medicaid, we must also be honest about its fiscal trajectory. The status quo for Medicaid is simply unsustainable. Not only are Medicaid outcomes lackluster, the program is on a path toward bankrupting our States. The budget before us puts Medicaid on a more sustainable path. Critics argue that this budget pays for tax relief through cuts to Medicaid. I want to clarify that. This budget does not rely on savings from Medicaid to achieve tax reform. In fact, the economic growth attributed to reforming the Tax Code will help improve Medicaid's fiscal health. I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment, and I ask for the yeas and nays. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a sufficient second? There appears to be a sufficient second. The question is on agreeing to the amendment. The clerk will call the roll. The assistant bill clerk called the roll.
