Throughout his second term, President Donald Trump has repeatedly pledged to protect vital programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security. However, some of his actions have raised doubts about his commitment to these promises.
Most recently, Trump suggested he might cut national funding for Medicare and Medicaid to help cover the costs of the ongoing war with Iran. Here’s what we know about his proposed plan and whether he has the authority to make these cuts.
What Trump Said About the War and Funding
In early March, the U.S. military, in cooperation with Israel, launched an attack on Iran. The administration stated that the attack was aimed at addressing concerns about Iran’s nuclear program and broader security threats, and it was positioned as part of a strategy to help bring about regime change in the country.
During a primetime address on April 1, 2026, President Trump framed the conflict as an essential investment for future generations. He emphasized the importance of the war in securing global stability, claiming, “This is a true investment in your children and your grandchildren’s future. The whole world is watching.”
Trump also warned that the U.S. would strike Iran hard over the next few weeks, saying, “We’re going to bring them back to the Stone Ages, where they belong.” However, the war has faced significant pushback, particularly due to its impact on gas prices, which have risen by almost 36%. The war’s costs have also been substantial, and Trump has acknowledged the financial strain.
Trump’s Proposal for Cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, and Daycare
To cover the expenses of the war, President Trump proposed a drastic change in how certain federal programs are funded. In a speech at a White House Easter lunch, which was later accidentally uploaded to YouTube, Trump suggested ending national funding for Medicare, Medicaid, and daycare services. Instead, he proposed shifting responsibility for these programs to individual states.
Trump stated, “We can balance the budget. We can have a surplus if you can stop that. And that does not include Medicare, Medicaid—that’s even bigger… We can’t take care of daycare. You got to let a state take care of daycare. And they should pay for it, too. They should pay. They’ll have to raise their taxes, but they should pay for it.”
He argued that the federal government should prioritize military protection and that states should assume responsibility for funding these programs. His remarks were not made in a public forum but were leaked after the White House accidentally uploaded the speech.
Can Trump Actually Stop Funding Medicare?
Medicare and Medicaid are entitlement programs established by federal law, and as such, President Trump does not have the authority to unilaterally stop funding these programs.
However, he could push for cuts through legislative action and budget proposals. By proposing significant reductions to federal funding, he could encourage states to take over the financial responsibility for these programs, though this would likely face significant opposition.
If Trump proceeds with such a plan, it would likely encounter major resistance from Congress, especially from members who have championed the protection of Medicare and Medicaid. Additionally, American citizens who rely on these programs would likely voice strong opposition to any cuts.
Reaction to Trump’s Proposal
While President Trump has not publicly commented on the leaked remarks, the White House has not yet responded to inquiries regarding his proposal. However, the idea of cutting Medicare and Medicaid funding is expected to spark a heated debate in Washington and among the public, particularly as it pertains to the long-term welfare of vulnerable populations.
What’s Next for Medicare and Medicaid?
As of now, it remains unclear whether President Trump will formally propose these cuts in the upcoming budget. If he does, it would likely set the stage for significant political battles, as both Medicare and Medicaid are crucial programs that serve millions of Americans.
