The latest KFF poll revealed a significant surge in Medicaid’s popularity, with 83% of Americans now holding favorable views of the program, up from 77% just a few months ago. Notably, three in four Republican voters now express support for Medicaid. This increase in popularity coincides with heightened awareness of Republican proposals to cut Medicaid funding, a contentious issue as lawmakers aim to advance the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.”

Contrastingly, the budget bill itself faces a lack of public favor, with two in three Americans expressing unfavorable views towards it. Despite this, supporters of President Trump find favor in both the bill and Medicaid. The poll also highlights a strong public sentiment in favor of increased Medicaid funding, with 42% advocating for an increase in federal spending on the program.

Medicaid’s widespread reach, providing health coverage to 71 million low-income and disabled individuals nationwide, contributes to its popularity. The program’s personal impact on recipients and their families resonates strongly with the public, fueling the desire for enhanced Medicaid support. As debates on Medicaid funding intensify, the poll underscores the importance of effective messaging in shaping public perception and the substantial concerns of current Medicaid beneficiaries about potential coverage loss and its detrimental effects on their health and well-being.