Rep. LaMonica McIver (D-10) is accompanied by mother and disability advocate Cathy Tamburello from Verona at tonight’s joint presidential address to Congress. Cathy is the mom of 39-year-old Michael, who has intellectual and developmental disabilities including autism, vision, hearing, mobility and communication challenges, as well as a rare disease called CHARGE Syndrome. He requires extensive around the clock medical care, which is funded through Medicaid.

The Republican budget that was pushed through the House last week stands to slash $880 billion from the program, jeopardizing care for Michael and millions of others on Medicaid.

“Today, Donald Trump is giving his joint address to Congress less than one week after House Republicans pushed through a budget that would cut trillions from programs like Medicaid, SNAP, school lunches and more,” said Rep. McIver. “In NJ-10 alone, the Republican budget would kick 225,000 New Jerseyans off Medicaid. These aren’t just numbers. They’re people—like my guest to tonight’s address, Cathy from Verona, whose son, Michael, relies on Medicaid for care. I’m honored to stand alongside Cathy this evening, and to fight in Congress every day for her, Michael, and everyone in our 10th District.”

“Medicaid is a lifeline for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities like my son, Michael. It ensures he can live a good life that supports his health, safety and happiness,” said Cathy Tamburello.

For specific numbers on how these disastrous Medicaid cuts would impact every district in the country click here.