Omahans rally in support of Medicare, Medicaid funding

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) - President Donald Trump’s “Big, Beautiful Bill” continues to cause quite the stir.

The legislative package combines tax breaks, spending cuts and border security funding.

Omaha resident Melody Sheldon said she supports funding for Medicare and Medicaid, a potential target of budget cuts in the legislation.

Her brother, Oliver, relies on Medicare to pay for his medical bills.

“He’s severely autistic, completely non-verbal and he needs support and help,” Sheldon said. “I don’t have the money or the time to take care of my brother.”

Sheldon and dozens of NE-02 constituents rallied outside of Congressman Don Bacon’s Millard office on Friday, demonstrating in support of Medicaid. Arlington resident Evan Christensen joined them.

“I’m on social security disability and I’m on Medicaid as well,” Christensen said.

Congressman Bacon voted alongside 215 other Representatives in favor of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” According to NBC News, the legislation contains one of the largest Medicaid funding cuts in modern history.

Speaking on a press call on Friday, Bacon said he defends his vote.

“We expect if you’re an able-bodied adult without children that you should be seeking a job or getting the skills to get another job or as a minimum, volunteering 20 hours a week,” Bacon said.

Bacon said he will continue to hold virtual town halls to hear from Second Congressional District voters. He said they can field more questions and host a bigger audience that way.

But, the people standing outside his office on Friday want something else.

“We would like Don Bacon to get in front of us in person,” said Scott Else. “Come talk to us. Come explain to us how this bill is going to help us.”

Sheldon said she is hopeful for no cuts, but she’s doubtful.

“I’ve seen the cruelty beyond a point here and I don’t know if this country still has heart enough to care,” Sheldon said.

Congressman Bacon said constituents will know about his next Virtual Town Hall one week in advance, which is how he normally notifies.

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