‘I could die’: A Wisconsin woman fears impending Medicaid cuts, while others celebrate

What this episode covers

The passage of the “One Big Beautiful Bill” deeply slashed Medicaid funding. Almost $1 trillion will be cut from the program over the next ten years. But what does it look like for recipients now in 2025?   In Episode 1, you’ll meet a current recipient, 26-year-old Emma Widmar from Racine, Wisconsin, who considers Medicaid a lifeline.  "I simply would not be able to have a quality of life. I would potentially, you know, I could die. And I think people think that I'm being dramatic when I say that, but it's true."  You’ll also hear from reporter Marty Schladen from the Ohio Capital Journal about reaction in Ohio, where some state politicians celebrated the decision.  Then Evening Wrap newsletter author Daneille Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching out for. Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer. Special thank you to Erik Gunn, Deputy Editor of the Wisconsin Examiner. Click here for the full transcript.  For more information on today’s episode visit, https://www.newsfromthestates.com/podcast/stories-states.  Subscribe to Stories From the States on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Youtube. Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at [email protected]. Photo: Emma Widmar, shown with her dog Zander, has relied on Medicaid while managing complex health problems that she has had since she was 12. (Photo courtesy of Emma Widmar)