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Rep. Clyburn Compares Medicaid Work Requirements to Jim Crow-Era Policies

  • Rep. James Clyburn slammed new Medicaid work requirements, calling them “the worst” legislation he’s seen
  • He compared the policy to Jim Crow-era tactics, claiming it targets people who are already working
  • Supporters argue the rules promote accountability, while critics say they could hurt vulnerable recipients

During Tuesday’s broadcast of CNN’s Laura Coates Live, Rep. James Clyburn (D-SC) made waves with a sharp critique of the new Medicaid work requirements included in the recently passed reconciliation bill.

Clyburn compared the policy change to one of the darkest periods in American history. “[T]his awful piece of legislation, I think it’s the worst thing I’ve seen in my lifetime. And it mirrors stuff that I’ve studied in history,” he said. “We are seeing an attempt on the part of this administration to replicate that which took place when we saw the creation of Jim Crow.”

The new policy requires certain Medicaid recipients to meet work-related criteria to continue receiving benefits. Supporters say it’s about encouraging independence and accountability for able-bodied adults receiving government aid. But Clyburn argues the policy unfairly targets people who are already working.

“85% of the people who get this aid or Medicaid are already working,” he said. “And so, what we’re going to do is say that, even though you’re already working, we’re now going to subject you to a new test, which could very well result in your not working at all.”

Conservatives argue that Medicaid should be a safety net, not a lifestyle. But critics like Clyburn believe the new work rules are unnecessary and burdensome. The debate highlights the growing divide over how to reform welfare without punishing those genuinely trying to get ahead.

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