Capitol Police Arrest 34 Protesters Opposing Medicaid Cuts

On June 24, 2025, U.S. Capitol Police arrested a total of 34 individuals, including 33 who were part of a demonstration inside the Russell Senate Office Building, protesting proposed cuts to Medicaid as outlined in President Trump's budget bill. The protest was organized by a group called American Disabled for Attendant Programs Today (ADAPT), and participants vehemently chanted against the cuts while occupying a restricted area. According to a spokesperson for the Capitol Police, the protesters were charged with crowding, obstructing, or incommoding, as demonstrating inside Congressional buildings is prohibited by law. The arrests included several demonstrators utilizing wheelchairs, highlighting the diverse group affected by the potential Medicaid cuts. Reports state that one additional protester was arrested for crossing a police line outside the building during the law enforcement response. The backdrop of this protest is Trump's budget proposal, which includes significant reductions to Medicaid, an essential coverage program for over 70 million low-income and disabled Americans. The proposed changes also include imposing federal work requirements for the first time, which could jeopardize coverage for millions. Despite the arrests, the spokesperson emphasized that there are designated areas on Capitol Grounds where protests can be conducted safely and legally. The event showcases the ongoing tensions around healthcare policies in the U.S. and the mobilization of advocates fighting to preserve essential services for vulnerable populations.