Dexter Visits Local Health Clinics to Spotlight Medicaid Cuts

Congresswoman Maxine Dexter, M.D. (OR-03) joined Democrats across the nation on Medicaid Day of Action to fight back against Republican budget plans that would impose the largest Medicaid cuts in U.S. history—gutting $880 billion in critical healthcare funding. Dexter toured East County Health Center in Multnomah County and, the day prior, One Community Health in Hood River. Both clinics are Federally Qualified Health Centers that provide essential care to thousands of Oregonians. During her visits, she spoke directly with patients and providers about the vital role Medicaid serves in providing access to high-quality healthcare for our communities.

“Republicans are stealing from the poor to cut taxes for the ultrawealthy. Nowhere is this more egregious than their budget plans to slash Medicaid funding by $880 billion,” said Dexter. “I’ve heard firsthand from Oregonians: these cuts are a matter of life or death. I’m using every tool at my disposal to fight back—in Congress, the courts, and public sphere. But I need our community’s help: if you will be impacted by cuts to Medicaid, share your story with my office.”

"Medicaid is a lifeline for a significant percentage of our population and is what funds many of the services the county provides. 220,423 people in Multnomah County are enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid). An even higher percentage of children rely on the plan. Multnomah County Clinic is the biggest provider of health services to the Medicaid population. If we lose funding it will directly impact our ability to serve our community and keep people healthy,” said commissioner Meghan Moyer.

As one of six Democratic physicians in Congress, Rep. Dexter has been a leading voice in the fight to protect Medicaid. Last month, she joined fellow Democratic lawmakers to hold a shadow hearing in Washington, D.C. on the impact of House Republicans’ budget plan to cut Medicaid.

Last week, Dexter helped launch the Congressional Doctors Caucus, a coalition of Democratic doctors in Congress committed to safeguarding Medicaid and ensuring every American has access to quality, affordable healthcare.