U.S. News
Medicare Safe for Now, but Hassett Says ‘We Would Look at It’ if Senate Finds Abuse
By Jake Beardslee · June 9, 2025
White House National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett emphasized Sunday that Medicare is not being targeted in President Trump’s budget proposal but acknowledged the administration may consider changes if the Senate uncovers fraud or abuse.
“If somebody finds waste, fraud and abuse in Medicare, then of course we would look at it,” Hassett said on CBS’s “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan.” He strongly denied speculation that Medicare is on the chopping block, calling it “a big fake news story.”
The House-passed budget package, referred to by Trump as the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” includes extensive tax cuts, increased border security funding, and changes to Medicaid and food assistance programs. The bill has sparked heated debate, especially over its proposed changes to Medicaid.
Hassett reiterated that Medicare is “totally not on the table,” pushing back on media narratives suggesting otherwise. However, he expressed willingness to examine the program if senators, during their review, flag areas of misuse.
The Congressional Budget Office estimates the bill would add $2.4 trillion to the national debt over 10 years. Some senators, like Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), have supported examining Medicare Advantage for “waste, fraud, and abuse,” while insisting this effort won’t impact beneficiaries.
Though the administration insists Medicaid isn’t being cut, critics point to contentious new requirements for low-income recipients, including monthly premiums.
The bill, narrowly approved by the House 215–214, now faces a tight vote in the Senate, where Republicans can afford no more than four defections. Senators including Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, and Josh Hawley have expressed concerns, with Hawley calling the Medicaid provisions “morally wrong and politically suicidal.”
Asked about Hawley’s opposition, Hassett responded, “I’d have to go see what he has and talk to him about it… I can’t speak to that one.”
Hassett warned that failing to pass the bill could come at a steep economic cost: “If we don’t pass this bill, then we lose 6 to 7 million jobs and 4% GDP.”
Senate Republicans are expected to unveil their version of the legislation soon. If it differs significantly, the bill would return to the House before potentially reaching President Trump’s desk.