SE Kansas City News

Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, a member of the U.S. Congress representing Missouri’s 5th district since 2005, used his social media platform on August 12, 2025, to voice strong opposition to what he referred to as Republicans’ “Big Ugly Bill” and its effects on American families and healthcare.

In a post made at 17:47 UTC, Cleaver criticized the legislation’s economic impact: "Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill showers the wealthiest 10% of Americans with 63% of the benefits while giving crumbs to the bottom 60% of families and adding $4 trillion to the national debt. It’s more failed trickle-down economics—only on steroids."

Later that day at 19:03 UTC, Cleaver highlighted concerns about potential reductions in healthcare services following discussions with local health centers and rural health partners. He stated: "Today I joined @UHKCMO, local health centers, & rural health partners to discuss how Republicans’ Big Ugly Law will gut Medicaid & weaken our safety net. These cuts mean fewer doctors, closed clinics, and families forced to choose between medicine & groceries."

Cleaver reaffirmed his stance against the legislation in another message posted at nearly the same time: "Just as I voted against the Big Ugly Law in the House of Representatives, I will continue fighting to combat these cuts and protect federal funding that supports affordable healthcare for Missouri families. Because lives are on the line."

Cleaver was born in Waxahachie, Texas in 1944 and currently resides in Kansas City. He graduated from Prairie View A&M University in 1972 with a Bachelor of Science degree.