House Speaker Mike Johnson sparked controversy after arguing that major entitlement programs, including Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, will require reforms to address the nation’s growing debt.

During a radio interview, Johnson said that more than 74 percent of federal spending is mandatory and that lawmakers would need to make adjustments to these programs in the future.He framed the issue as a response to the United States’ debt, which he said exceeds $40 trillion.Johnson added that Republican leaders have a plan to address the matter next year.

Political analyst Joe Perticone of The Bulwark strongly criticized Johnson’s remarks, arguing that discussing potential changes to Social Security is politically risky because the program remains one of the most popular government benefits among American voters.

Perticone described the comments as a serious political mistake, noting that many Americans view Social Security benefits as an earned right after decades of paying into the system.

The article also points out that former President Donald Trump has repeatedly promised not to cut Social Security benefits, creating potential tension between Johnson’s comments and Trump’s public position.

Perticone further referenced Senator Rick Scott’s 2022 proposal to sunset federal programs after five years, which generated significant backlash when critics feared it could affect Social Security.

According to the report, Johnson’s remarks have already created difficulties for other Republican lawmakers who are being questioned about possible changes to the program.

The controversy highlights the ongoing debate over the long-term financial sustainability of entitlement programs and the political challenges associated with proposing reforms to benefits relied upon by millions of Americans.