House Republicans are leaning into Medicaid work requirements as they attempt to sell voters on their reconciliation bill.
Party strategists believe that the issue can help insulate them from accusations that they are ripping away health care from low-income adults. And they think it will play well with working-class voters who have been fleeing the Democratic Party.
In a recent internal GOP survey, 72% of voters across 72 targeted House districts support “requiring able-bodied, working-age adults who receive Medicaid to at least look for work or participate in community service part-time,” per a memo obtained by Punchbowl News.
The poll of 1,200 registered voters was conducted by Fabrizio, Lee & Associates for the American Action Network, a nonprofit aligned with House Republican leadership.
Work requirements tested higher than ending the federal income tax on tips and overtime pay.
Of course, this is a Republican survey and should be viewed with some skepticism. But it offers insight into how GOP congressional leaders are thinking about messaging the legislation.
Other data from the poll showed immigration is also a selling point: 68% support “providing funding and equipment” to the military to help it fight drug cartels. Republicans are also highlighting that the bill will prevent undocumented immigrants from receiving Medicaid.
