Jeffries Condemns Ernsts We All Die Remark Amid Medicaid Cuts Controversy

House Minority Leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries targeted Sen. Joni Ernst’s controversial “we’re all going to die” remark during a press briefing on Tuesday. Ernst, an Iowa Republican, faced backlash after responding callously to a constituent’s concern about proposed Medicaid cuts leading to deaths by saying, “We all are going to die.” This remark, along with her follow-up video filmed in a graveyard, drew significant criticism and mockery.

Jeffries criticized Ernst’s comment, stating that while everyone knows they will pass away, the cause of death should not be “Republican cruelty.” He specifically referenced the Republicans’ Big Beautiful Bill, condemning it as a “disgusting abomination” that aims to strip healthcare from millions and deprive starving children and veterans of food. Jeffries’ comments joined a chorus of public mockery directed at Ernst for her remarks.