ALBANY, N.Y. (WRGB) — Governor Kathy Hochul rallied at MVP Arena in Albany Thursday in support of the 1199 SEIU healthcare union, which represents thousands of healthcare workers across New York State.
The governor highlighted additional Medicaid investments included in her 2027 fiscal year budget proposal, totaling more than $35 billion.
Hochul said the state is attempting to offset federal cuts made through the Trump-backed “Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which included major federal tax cuts and changes to Medicaid.
MORE: Nurses, healthcare workers rally for safe staffing, more hospital funding
“You know who does not appreciate what you do day in and day out? The Republicans in Washington led by Donald Trump,” Hochul said. “They don’t give a damn about you, or health care or people.”
The 1199 healthcare union declared a “Code Red” earlier this year in response to those federal Medicaid reductions, warning the cuts could lead to additional healthcare facility closures statewide.
Republicans argue the Medicaid changes are intended to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse.
MORE: Gov. Hochul calls for restoration of 9/11 health program staff