Chemung County residents urge local lawmakers to press Rep. Langworthy and oppose proposed Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security cuts

Dozens of Chemung County residents told the County Legislature on March 10 that proposed federal cuts to Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security would devastate local families and services and demanded that Republican U.S. Rep. Nick Langworthy hold an in‑person town hall.

Speakers said the House GOP 2025 budget vote on Feb. 25 would allow deep cuts — cited in public comments as $880 billion over 10 years — and warned the reductions would reduce access to care for people who rely on Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security. "Losing Medicaid isn't just a policy debate. It's my life," said Liz Penman of Elmira, who told the legislature she relies on Medicaid and Social Security disability.

The comments at the public‑comment portion of the Chemung County Legislature meeting included personal stories about how Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security support people with disabilities, veterans and older residents. Nancy McGowan Lester described her stepson with spina bifida who, she said, depends on Medicaid and Medicare for ongoing care.…