Iowa Senator Ernst Faces Heated Town Hall Over Trump, Medicaid
PARKERSBURG, Iowa-A town hall meeting featuring Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, on Friday morning devolved into a series of intense exchanges, revealing deep divisions among constituents. The primary points of contention included proposed cuts to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), as well as concerns about congressional oversight of President Donald Trump.
Clash Over Presidential Power
One of the most charged moments occurred when Harrison Cass, a Navy veteran and civics teacher, questioned whether President Trump’s actions were an overreach of executive power that threatened democratic norms. Mr. Cass cited instances such as President Trump’s alleged refusal to adhere to judicial orders and bypassing congressional approval on issues like tariffs.
Did You Know?
The separation of powers is a essential principle of the U.S. government, ensuring that no single branch becomes too dominant. This system is designed to prevent tyranny and protect individual liberties.
Mr. Cass directly challenged sen. Ernst:
“Are you afraid of Trump, are you corrupt like Trump or are you just to the point you don’t care anymore and that’s why you don’t do anything?”
Harrison Cass, Navy Veteran and Civics Teacher
Sen. Ernst countered that she did not believe democracy was under threat and defended manny of President Trump’s actions. She emphasized that President Trump engaged with her on policy matters, a contrast she drew with President Joe Biden.
Sen. Ernst stated:
“(President Trump) does take my calls, he does listen to my concerns. I did not do that with President Biden, he did not take my calls, he did not take anybody’s calls. That’s the way government should work is having this type of interaction and interaction between the branches of government.”
Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa
Medicaid Cuts Spark Outrage
The potential for cuts to Medicaid, particularly under the proposed “big Gorgeous Bill,” dominated much of the discussion. Sen. Ernst declined to comment on how she would vote, stating that she anticipated changes to the bill and would wait for the Senate version.
Pro Tip
Understanding the legislative process can help you engage more effectively with your elected officials. Researching bills and contacting your representatives can make a difference.
However, Sen.Ernst defended efforts to reduce benefits for individuals she claimed were ineligible for Medicaid. This prompted a strong reaction from the audience.
According to Sen. Ernst, she was trying to rollback
benefits for people she said were not supposed to be eligible for Medicaid benefits. That response drew shouting from the crowd including one woman who yelled people will die
. An exacerbated Ernst gave a sarcastic reply well we are all going to die
, which drew more angst from the crowd.
Video
watch the full town hall here:
