2:31U.S. Representative Mike Flood (R-NE) responds to questions from constituents during a town hall meeting in Lincoln, Nebraska, U.S., August 4, 2025. REUTERS/Scott MorganScott Morgan/Reuters
House Republican Rep. Mike Flood encountered what seemed to be an unfriendly audience during a lively town hall on Monday evening in Lincoln, Nebraska.
The gathering erupted within minutes of the forum’s commencement, heckling and shouting at the congressman as he praised President Donald Trump’s extensive policy and tax legislation that was enacted in July.
Flood indicated that there were approximately 750 individuals present at Kimball Hall.
U.S. Representative Mike Flood (R-NE) responds to questions from constituents during a town hall meeting in Lincoln, Nebraska, U.S., August 4, 2025. REUTERS/Scott MorganScott Morgan/Reuters
"I understand this might be met with some opposition … I want the chance to explain to you and discuss health care in the legislation we recently passed. I intend to delve into this bill, as I recognize many have inquiries regarding it. Honestly, from my perspective, there has been a lot of misinformation circulating about the bill," Flood addressed the crowd, which responded with loud boos.
He attempted to guide the audience through significant health care aspects of the comprehensive bill but was persistently overshadowed by the boisterous crowd.
"The only way we will get through tonight is if I am given the opportunity to explain my vote, because in the end, I represent you, and you will have your voice," he stated.
The effects of the megabill on Medicaid were a primary subject raised at the town hall, which frustrated the audience.
"So, here’s a question. Do you believe that individuals who are 28 years old, capable of working but refuse to do so, should receive free health care?" Flood queried, eliciting a negative reaction from the crowd. "I don't think the majority of Nebraskans share your view."
The congressman contended that while Medicaid benefits were not reduced, the modifications to the program do not "affect anyone who is disabled, of senior age and unable to work, pregnant, or vulnerable."
When an audience member inquired how the congressman could rationalize depriving Nebraskans of health care, Flood dismissed the concern.
"We have a state where our infrastructure will be supported, funded, and accessible for those who need it. If you are capable of working and you’re 28 years old but choose not to work, you do not receive free health care in America. If you are in this country illegally, you do not receive free health care in America."
Sarah Davis of Lincoln, Nebraska, shouts after posing a question to U.S. Representative Mike Flood during a town hall in Lincoln, Nebraska, U.S., August 4, 2025.Scott Morgan/Reuters
Audience members frequently yelled, "Tax the Rich! Tax the Rich! Tax the Rich!" as Rep. Flood addressed tax aspects of the megabill, such as the absence of taxes on tips and overtime.
The congressman countered, stating, "If we had implemented the Democrats’ proposal from the last Congress to tax the wealthy, it would have generated $50 billion, which is far from sufficient for our needs. It hampers job creation. It stifles business development. It restricts employers’ capacity to invest in their businesses."
"This bill represents a tax reduction for the middle class," Rep. Flood asserted at one juncture, which met with significant resistance and boos from
Sourse: abcnews.go.com
