The Republican speaker’s decision underscored the resistance in his party to politically painful reductions to the program, and drew a backlash from the hard right, which is demanding deep cuts.

WASHINGTON ― Some of Republicans’ top ideas for reducing Medicaid spending would cut enrollment by millions, according to a new report by the Congressional Budget Office. The analysis comes as no surprise but nevertheless could make it harder for House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.

GOP lawmakers in swing districts insist they will not vote for any proposal that strips benefits, placing them at odds with more conservative lawmakers looking to secure deep cuts in spending.