Protestors sing outside Congressman Juan Ciscomani's office in Tucson, Ariz., on Thursday, March 27, 2025.
Demonstrators continued to protest outside of Rep. Juan Ciscomani’s office in Tucson on Thursday, as the congressman continues to face scrutiny from Democrats over the future of Medicaid cuts.
The recent budget resolution passed unanimously by House Republicans calls for at $880 billion to be cut from the House Energy and Commerce Committee, much of which is expected to come from Medicaid, the largest portion of the budget under that committee’s control.
On Feb. 19, Ciscomani wrote a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson urging him to maintain funding for Medicaid.
“Slashing Medicaid would have serious consequences, particularly in rural and predominantly Hispanic communities where hospitals and nursing homes are already struggling to keep their doors open,” the letter wrote.
Carol Evans, a leader for the group organizing under LD18 Democrats, said Ciscomani should take a stronger stance.
“So for our representative, Ciscomani, to say that Arizonans on Medicaid are all protected, or he will do his best to protect us. In my opinion, his best to protect everybody is to stand up and say, ‘This can't continue,’” she said.
Protestor Joan Peterson said she feels frustrated Ciscomani has not held a forum to hear from constituents.
“He won't listen to what we have to say, and we're demanding it, and we will be here until he sees the light. He still represents my part of the city. He still represents me. So he needs to talk to us,” she said.
A spokesperson for Rep. Ciscomani’s office said there are currently no plans to hold a town hall, and released the following statement about the March 27 demonstration:
“Anytime constituents want to stop by my office and express their opinions, they’re welcome. My team is on hand to hear their concerns and we’re always willing to engage in civil, productive dialogue.”
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