Lisa Cutler, Communications Director for the Alliance for Retired Americans, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the future of Social Security, potential Medicaid cuts in Congress and the ripple effects of healthcare policy changes on private insurance premiums.
Cutler explained that recent projections show Social Security can pay full benefits until 2033, after which benefits could drop to 77 percent if Congress doesn't act. She offered a simple solution: making high-income earners pay their fair share into Social Security beyond the current $176,000 cap. Cutler said this change could maintain full benefits and potentially increase them for all recipients.
Regarding Medicaid, Cutler warned of harsh cuts being considered in Congress that could lead to hospital closures, particularly in rural areas. She highlighted how these cuts represent a significant shift of responsibility from federal to state governments, potentially leaving millions without coverage. Cutler also discussed an AFL-CIO analysis showing that Medicaid cuts could indirectly raise private insurance premiums by about $500 annually for 179 million workers.
Finally, Cutler stressed the importance of understanding the interconnected nature of the healthcare system and economy. She pointed out that policy changes in one area, such as Medicaid cuts, can have far-reaching consequences across the healthcare landscape. Cutler emphasized the need for voters to elect representatives who prioritize protecting essential programs like Social Security and Medicaid.
For more, listen to the full episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast featuring Cutler above.