Let’s see if this fellow has the balls to stick to his guns.
The same attack format is used here: a candidate/politician makes a common-sense comment about an ridiculous entitlement. The response is strident and shrill with claims of racism or callousness.
Said politician then usually backs-down OR - they fight it and engage in debate. They are often frightened into backing-down, because the media is instant and loud, while honest debate and support usually take slightly longer to reveal themselves.
The minister won’t. Too many murderous taxpayers out there who would string him up if he did relent.