Roundup Archives — Protect Our Care

HEADLINES: Trump and Republicans Eye Devastating Medicaid Cuts to Fund More Tax Breaks for the Wealthy

Medicaid Cuts Top Priority for MAGA Republicans, Putting the Lives of Millions At Risk

Trump is doubling down on his agenda to devastate health care for millions of Americans. For the last 59 years, Medicaid has been a pillar of our public health system, saving lives, keeping hospitals open, and improving the well-being of countless Americans. It covers one in four Americans, including kids, moms, seniors, people of color, rural Americans, and people with disabilities. But Trump and his allies in Congress have vowed to cut Medicaid and other vital programs in order to fund tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans — and they are not skipping a beat to get it done. News coverage makes clear that, if Trump gets his way, coverage would be ripped away from millions and the entire health care system would be thrown into chaos.

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING

U.S. Representative Jodey Arrington (R-TX-19), a Republican who leads the House Budget Committee, told reporters last week that he favored a “responsible and reasonable work requirement” for Medicaid, which translates to millions losing their coverage.
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), another Republican from Texas, said of Medicaid, “We ought to look at whether we’re doing it the right way.” He said he supported “block grants,” in which states get lump sums, regardless of how many people sign up for the program. Studies show block grants would slash Medicaid funding and put coverage in jeopardy for millions of people.
U.S. Representative Brett Guthrie (R-KY-02), one of two leading contenders for Energy and Commerce chair, told Axios he is interested in reviving a proposal from the 2017 Affordable Care Act repeal bill that would cap Medicaid spending on each enrollee, known as a “per capita cap” or allotment. “We offered Medicaid reform in reconciliation in the repeal-and-replace package, and it was per capita allotments, which didn’t cut Medicaid but it does limit the growth,” Guthrie said. “I do think it has to be discussed as part of the package [next year],” Guthrie said, adding that he hadn’t yet discussed the idea with leadership.

HEADLINES

The New York Times: Medicaid May Face Big Cuts and Work Requirements. “Republicans could face political resistance in efforts to cut Medicaid, especially because it has so many enrollees — millions more than Medicare… In 2017, Republicans faced a major backlash for trying to roll back the Obamacare Medicaid expansion… Faced with such a large funding reduction, some states may stop participating in the Medicaid expansion, experts said. A Medicaid work requirement would also target adults who were added in the expansion (although most of them are already working).” [NYT, 11/20/24]

HuffPost: Health Insurance For Millions Is Now Officially At Stake — Again. “… several high-ranking Republicans on Capitol Hill told Politico big cuts to Medicaid should be on the agenda… Philosophically, they believe that downsizing and reshaping these programs is the right thing to do. And as a practical matter, they will be looking for ways to offset at least some of the cost of their proposed tax cuts, which could show up as several trillion dollars worth of lost revenue on the federal government’s ledger… The biggest pot of money in the federal budget goes to the big entitlement programs. And although Trump has pledged to protect Medicare and Social Security, he has made no equivalent guarantees about either the Affordable Care Act or Medicaid.” [HuffPost, 11/20/24]

The Washington Post: Trump Allies Eye Overhauling Medicaid, Food Stamps in Tax Legislation. “House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington (R-Texas) told reporters Wednesday that a “responsible and reasonable work requirement” for Medicaid benefits resembling the one that already exists for food stamps could yield about $100 billion in savings… If Congress balks at lowering Medicaid spending, Republicans may be able to reduce it anyway. While Trump vowed to protect Medicaid as a candidate during his 2016 presidential bid, the first Trump administration allowed 13 GOP-led states to add work requirements to their Medicaid programs, a controversial change that was the focus of legal battles.” [The Washington Post, 11/18/24]

Axios: GOP Weighs Medicaid Overhaul In Reconciliation. “Why it matters: Changes could significantly reshape the safety net program that covers more than 70 million people, saving money but also potentially leading to significant coverage losses. Driving the news: Perhaps the most likely Medicaid change is imposing work requirements on recipients, according to GOP sources.” [Axios, 11/20/24]

The Guardian: Trump Advisers Contemplating Cuts to Medicaid and Other Welfare Programs. “The cuts could mean new work requirements and spending caps… Republicans fear triggering a political backlash by slashing programmes that serve an estimated 70 million Americans to pay for a tax cut that disproportionately benefits the wealthy. The 2017 tax cuts were criticised for being skewed in favour of the rich, with households in the top 1% income bracket receiving a reduction of $60,000 in 2025, compared with less than $500 for those in the bottom 60%, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.” [The Guardian, 11/18/24]

Vox: Trump Proposed Big Medicaid and Food Stamp Cuts. Can He Pass Them? “Trump has promised not to cut Medicare, much as he did in 2016, and while his budgets as president did envision spending reductions, they were mostly minor and came from cutting provider payments rather than limiting eligibility. He did, repeatedly and explicitly, propose cutting Medicaid… Trump waffled on how clear he wanted to be in calling for Medicaid cuts. His 2021 budget was too vague for the CBO to even model… There is not much room to cut Medicaid without reducing access to the program.” [Vox, 11/6/24]

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People Who Know the Best Think RFK Jr.’s Nomination Is the Worst

On November 14th, Donald Trump took a dangerous step for Americans’ health by nominating anti-vaccince conspiracy theorist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to run the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). For years, Kennedy has spouted dangerous anti-vaccination beliefs and spread baseless lies about fluoride in the water supply. While on the campaign trail, he promised to stop research on drug development and infectious diseases. RFK Jr. is a MAGA loyalist who will put the personal interests of Donald Trump ahead of the needs of the American people. The truth is that RFK Jr. is unqualified to lead HHS and radically out of step with the American people. If confirmed, he will be a disaster for our public health. But don’t just take our word for it:

Dr. Mandy Cohen, CDC Director: RFK Jr. Will Take Us “Backwards.” “I don’t want to go backwards and see children or adults suffer or lose their lives to remind us that vaccines work, and so I’m concerned.” [11/14/24]

Kathleen Sebelius, Former Health and Human Services Secretary: RFK Jr.’s Nomination Is “Terrifying For The American Public”. “To have someone coming into a scientific agency that is a vaccine skeptic and may well undo decades of public health work, I think, is terrifying for the American public who rely on HHS from cradle to grave for resources, for information, for public health, for oversight of our food and medicines. That, to me, is a very frightening aspect for the American public.” [11/15/24]

Dr. Richard Besser, Former Acting CDC Director, President and CEO of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation: Having RFK Jr. Lead HHS “Is Extremely Dangerous.” “But to keep lifting up the idea that [the cause of autism] has something to do with vaccination is really a cruel thing to do. It’s pushing the idea that vaccines should be something that is totally up to the individual. We have a social contract in our country. There are things we do for our own health, but there are things we do that are good for ourselves, our families and our communities, and vaccination falls into that category and having somebody who denies that in that role is extremely dangerous. I am outraged because lives are at stake here. The head of Health and Human Services touches programs that affect every single life in our country. To have someone leading HHS who is one of the biggest deniers of vaccines in our country, would undermine the confidence in that program and likely would cost lives.” [11/17/24]

Josh Sharfstein, Former FDA Deputy Commissioner and Public Health Professor at Johns Hopkins University: RFK Jr. Is a “Purveyor of Falsehoods.” “He is a purveyor of falsehoods and he has nothing but contempt for people who work in agencies and have devoted their careers to using science to improve health.” [11/14/24]

Dr. Ashish Jha, Dean of the Brown University School of Public Health, Former Biden Administration COVID-19 Coordinator: RFK Jr. is an “Extraordinarily Bad Choice for the Health of the American People.” “This is an extraordinarily bad choice for the health of the American people. The HHS Secretary shapes health policy in profound ways. He would oversee Medicare for instance — and determine and shape your parents and grandparents’ health insurance. He and people he appoints would oversee the agency that decides what medicines are available to the American people. His ideas may sound good on bumper stickers but are unserious and often downright harmful. Our healthcare system is far from perfect. But it has spurred so much progress that has benefitted the American people. This appointment, if confirmed, puts all of that at risk.” [11/14/24]

Georges C. Benjamin, Executive Director of the American Public Health Association: “The American People Deserve Better.” “Unfortunately, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has demonstrated a consistent lack of willingness to listen, learn, and act in the best interest of the health of the American people. He was identified in 2021 as a member of the ‘Disinformation Dozen’ that produced 65% of the shares of anti-vaccine misinformation on social media platforms that contributed to the public’s mistrust in science and likely led to morbidity and mortality. The American people deserve better than Mr. Kennedy. We need an HHS secretary under the Trump administration who will listen to science, not discredit it.” [11/18/24]

Jonathan Reiner, MD, Director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at George Washington University Hospital and Professor of Medicine at George Washington University: RFK Jr. Is “Unfit” to Lead HHS. “He fits with the pattern we’ve seen this week… the hiring of people that are not just unqualified… but unfit. Mr. Kennedy has already shown over the last ten years his penchant for not just promoting unproven ideas but promoting disproven ideas. He has loudly promoted conspiracy theories such as the COVID virus being bioengineered to spare Ashkenazi Jews and Chinese [people], he’s promoted the completely disproven concept that vaccines are connected to autism, he’s been a loud not just skeptic but denier of the safety and efficacy of all vaccines, most recently mRNA vaccines… So basically we’re putting not just a vaccine denier but a science skeptic in charge of all of the nation’s premier health agencies.” [11/14/24]

Dr. Andrea Love, Immunologist, Microbiologist: “The Damage He Could Do Is Near Infinite.” “Honestly, if you look at the purview of HHS Secretary, the damage he could do is near infinite. And none of his long history gives any indication he will actually do anything to improve health, especially for those of lower socioeconomic status. I can honestly say it has never been this bad… [He could] skew, redirect, and reallocate grant and research funding [toward] fringe research,… cut funding for education and public health initiatives like vaccine campaigns or other public health interventions like fluoridation,… [and slow or halt regulatory approval] for vaccines, biologics, immunotherapies, and other critical medical interventions.” [11/15/24]

Torney Smith, Spokane Regional Health District Administrator: RFK Jr. Doesn’t Understand Public Health “At All.” “I have some early grave concerns. We know enough about Kennedy to understand that he is a person who does not believe in immunizations. He’s an individual that I don’t think understands public health at all. And to put a person like that in charge is reckless, in my opinion.” [11/15/24]

Professor Sir Andrew Pollard, Director of the Oxford Vaccine Group: “The Consequence Will Be Fatal.” Kennedy could use HHS “to pursue the same anti-science positions on life-saving public health interventions that he has advanced previously. If this makes families hesitate to immunize against the deadly diseases that threaten children, the consequence will be fatal for some.” [11/15/24]

Sean O’Leary, Chair of the Committee on Infectious Diseases for the American Academy of Pediatrics: “We Will Have Preventable Deaths.” “My fear is that children and the public will be harmed by an assault on science. We will see more measles, more pertussis. We will have preventable deaths based on politics and misinformation.” [11/14/24]

Timothy Caulfield, Professor in the Faculty of Law and the School of Public Health at the University of Alberta: RFK Jr. Will Cause “Generational Harm.” “Horrifying. A genuine catastrophe. This is a person who has spread deadly lies and conspiracy theories. He ignores evidence. He ignores experts. I have no doubt that he will do great harm—generational harm—to public health, trust in science, and biomedical research. Moreover, at the international level, he will platform, normalize, and legitimize pseudoscience and health misinformation, making it more ubiquitous and difficult to fact check.” [11/15/24]

Robert Weissman, Co-President of Public Citizen: RFK Jr. Is A “Clear and Present Danger.” “Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. is a clear and present danger to the nation’s health. He shouldn’t be allowed in the building at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), let alone be placed in charge of the nation’s public health agency. Donald Trump’s bungling of public health policy during the Covid pandemic cost hundreds of thousands of lives. By appointing Kennedy as his Secretary of HHS, Trump is courting another, policy-driven public health catastrophe.” [11/14/24]

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Week Six: Protect Our Care’s Care Force One Made Stops in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania

U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), U.S. Representatives Angie Craig (D-MN-02), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), Greg Landsman (D-OH-01), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09), And Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers Headlined “Lower Costs, Better Care” Bus Tour Events

On the sixth and final week of Protect Our Care’s nearly 12,000-mile “Lower Costs, Better Care” bus tour, “Care Force One” made stops in five states to make sure everyone understands how they continue to benefit from legislation like the Inflation Reduction Act and the Affordable Care Act – while also making it clear the stakes for American health care have never been higher. During each stop, national and local elected officials, health care advocates, and storytellers sounded the alarm about the threat Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans pose to American health care. MAGA Republicans want us to go back to the days when insurance companies made the rules and could deny people coverage. As Republicans fight to raise costs on working families, deny coverage for pre-existing conditions, and repeal the Inflation Reduction Act and Affordable Care Act, the Biden-Harris administration continues to improve access to quality and affordable health care.Over six weeks, Care Force One traveled to more than 17 states, made more than 50 stops, and traveled nearly 12,000 miles.

Watch All Bus Tour Stops Here

BURNSVILLE, MINNESOTA

Protect Our Care’s Care Force One was joined by Senator Amy Klobuchar and Congresswoman Angie Craig, state legislators, and health care advocates at the Dakota Child & Family Clinic in Burnsville, MN to highlight how the Biden-Harris administration and Democrats in Congress have delivered on their promise to drive down health care costs and how health care remains under threat by Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans.

Coverage:

Red Lake Nation News: Senator Amy Klobuchar and Congresswoman Angie Craig Headline “Lower Costs, Better Care” Bus Tour Stop in Burnsville, Minnesota

Watch the event here.

ROCHESTER, MINNESOTA

Protect Our Care’s Care Force One was joined by State Senator Liz Boldon, and health care advocates in Rochester, MN to highlight how the Biden-Harris administration and Democrats in Congress have delivered on their promise to drive down health care costs and how health care remains under threat by Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans.

Coverage:

KIMT: Bus tour advocates for affordable health care
Red Lake Nation News: Senator Liz Boldon Headlines “Lower Costs, Better Care” Bus Tour Stop in Rochester, Minnesota
KAALTV: “Protect Our Care” bus tour visits Rochester

Watch the event here.

BELOIT, WISCONSIN

Protect Our Care’s Care Force One was joined by U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, Governor Tony Evers, and health care advocates at Armstrong Park in Beloit, WI to highlight how the Biden-Harris administration and Democrats in Congress have delivered on their promise to drive down health care costs and how health care remains under threat by Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans.

Coverage:

Beloit Daily News: Baldwin, Evers stop in Beloit to tout health care advances
MyStateline.com: Wisconsin: Baldwin, Hovde opposed on abortion rights, Affordable Health Care Act
WMTV: One week from Election Day, Wisconsin Senate candidates on campaign trail
WQRF (FOX): Senator Baldwin stops in Beloit to Discuss Affordable Healthcare, Abortion Rights

Watch the event here.

KENOSHA, WISCONSIN

Protect Our Care’s Care Force One was joined by Governor Tony Evers, Former Congressman and Wisconsin Assembly Minority Leader Peter Barca, and health care advocates at Kenosha Union Club in Kenosha, WI to highlight how the Biden-Harris administration and Democrats in Congress have delivered on their promise to drive down health care costs and how health care remains under threat by Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans.

Coverage:

WisPolitics: Protect Our Care: Evers headlines “Lower Costs, Better Care” bus tour stop in Kenosha, Wisconsin

Watch the event here.

BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MICHIGAN

Protect Our Care’s Care Force One was joined by U.S. Representative Haley Stevens, and health care advocates at Congregational Church of Birmingham in Bloomfield Hills, MI to highlight how the Biden-Harris administration and Democrats in Congress have delivered on their promise to drive down health care costs and how health care remains under threat by Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans.

Coverage:

Alternative Fix: Protect Our Care Bus Travels Across the U.S.

Watch the event here.

CINCINNATI, OHIO

Protect Our Care’s Care Force One was joined by U.S. Representative Greg Landsman, and health care advocates at Washington Park in Cincinnati, OH to highlight how the Biden-Harris administration and Democrats in Congress have delivered on their promise to drive down health care costs and how health care remains under threat by Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans.

Watch the event here.

CLEVELAND, OHIO

Protect Our Care’s Care Force One was joined by City Council President Blaine Griffin, and health care advocates at Willard Park in Cleveland, OH to highlight how the Biden-Harris administration and Democrats in Congress have delivered on their promise to drive down health care costs and how health care remains under threat by Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans.

Watch the event here.

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA

Protect Our Care’s Care Force One was joined by Former Auditor General Eugene DePasquale, State Representative Arvind Venkat, MD, and health care advocates at City/County Building Portico in Pittsburgh, PA to highlight how the Biden-Harris administration and Democrats in Congress have delivered on their promise to drive down health care costs and how health care remains under threat by Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans.

Watch the event here.

TOLEDO, OHIO

Protect Our Care’s Care Force One was joined by U.S. Representative Marcy Kaptur, and health care advocates at University of Toledo Medical Center in Toledo, OH to highlight how the Biden-Harris administration and Democrats in Congress have delivered on their promise to drive down health care costs and how health care remains under threat by Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans.

Coverage:

WTVG: Congresswoman Kaptur to join Protect Our Care’s “Lower Costs, Better Care” bus tour

ashoup In News, Roundup

ROUNDUP: ‘Mike Johnson Vows to Kill Obamacare’: MAGA Republicans Finally Admit They Want to Repeal The ACA

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: a second Trump presidency would rip away coverage from millions and dramatically raise the cost of health care. Yesterday, House Speaker Mike Johnson confirmed the MAGA agenda for health care includes “no Obamacare.” This should come as no surprise – Trump’s plan all along was to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which would be devastating for millions of Americans. After months of lies from the campaign about Trump’s health care record, MAGA Republicans are finally admitting they want to repeal the ACA and rip away health care from millions of Americans, destroy protections for people with pre-existing conditions, and raise costs for working families. The threat that the ACA faces is the same, if not greater, than in 2016, and this election will make all the difference for the health and well-being of the American people.

Additional Resources

MEMO: Don’t Be Fooled By Trump’s Lies On The Debate Stage – He Is An Existential Threat to Our Health Care
STATEMENT: Trump Lies About His Goal to Repeal the ACA and Throw the Health Care System Into Chaos
FACT SHEET: 14 Years Later, The Affordable Care Act Is Woven Into the Fabric of America
FACT SHEET: Donald Trump Escalates Threats to Repeal the ACA and Rip Health Care Away From Millions
REPORT: The MAGA Republican War on American Health Care

Coverage

Sahil Kapur, MSNBC, ‘Morning Joe’: “What’s at stake? This law has extended coverage to more than 45 million people in the U.S.”

Jimmy Kimmel, Jimmy Kimmel Live: “If someone who works for you, let’s say it’s your barber, promises to present you with a plan for trimming your hair. Over and over again for nine years and never does. You’d probably fire that person… because your hair would be down to your ass.”

NBC News: House Speaker Mike Johnson Criticizes Obamacare And Promises ‘Massive Reform’ If Trump Wins.

“House Speaker Mike Johnson took a dig at Obamacare at an event in Pennsylvania on Monday, telling a crowd there would be ‘massive’ health care changes in America if Donald Trump wins the election. ‘Health care reform’s going to be a big part of the agenda. When I say we’re going to have a very aggressive first 100 days agenda, we got a lot of things still on the table,’ Johnson, R-La., said in Bethlehem as he campaigned for GOP House candidate Ryan Mackenzie, according to video obtained by NBC News.”
“‘No Obamacare?’ an attendee asked Johnson, referring to the law Democrats passed in 2010, also known as the Affordable Care Act. ‘No Obamacare,’ Johnson responded, rolling his eyes. ‘The ACA is so deeply ingrained, we need massive reform to make this work, and we got a lot of ideas on how to do that.’ Johnson held a back-and-forth about health care with the audience at Monday’s campaign event in Pennsylvania, saying that physician members in the House Republican caucus had ‘a menu of options’ for how to revise the system and ‘take government bureaucrats out of the health care equation.’ He didn’t detail what changes he would seek, but he made it clear that deregulation would be part of it.”

The Washington Post: Mike Johnson Vows Major Changes To Affordable Care Act If Trump Wins Election.

“House Speaker Mike Johnson pledged ‘massive reform’ of the Affordable Care Act if Donald Trump is elected president, reopening a politically sensitive policy issue for Republicans a week before Election Day.
“The Affordable Care Act, which Democrats enacted in 2010, has become one of the party’s more popular achievements after initially being perceived as a political liability. Sixty-two percent of adults had favorable views of the law in April, up from 38 percent a decade earlier, according to polling by KFF, a nonprofit health policy research, polling and news organization. The law also has transformed the nation’s health-care landscape. The White House last month touted data showing that nearly 50 million Americans have obtained health coverage through the Affordable Care Act’s health insurance exchanges since they were established more than a decade ago, helping to lower the national uninsured rate to record lows in recent years.”
“Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, has promised to expand enrollment through the law if elected president. Republicans, meanwhile, mounted dozens of efforts in Congress to overturn the law, and Trump won the presidency in 2016 by pledging to ‘repeal Obamacare.’ But several Trump-led repeal efforts fell short — with the Senate in July 2017 coming one vote away from overturning the Affordable Care Act — and the law’s near-death catalyzed new support for it.”
“Johnson ‘finally told the truth about Donald Trump and his MAGA Republican allies’ agenda for health care in their first 100 days. They want to repeal the ACA,’ Leslie Dach, the chairman of Protect Our Care, a Democratic-aligned health-care advocacy group, wrote in a statement.”

New York Magazine: Helping Kamala Harris, Mike Johnson Vows to Kill Obamacare.

“Worse yet, Johnson’s remarks very strongly suggest two things that are potentially dangerous to Trump in the eyes of swing voters: (1) He plans to make repealing Obamacare an immediate priority if Trump wins and Republicans control Congress, which likely means it would be rolled into a gigantic budget-reconciliation bill and steamrolled through to passage if possible, and (2) his party’s designs on health-care policy are radical, meant to replace the regulations central to Obamacare’s coverage guarantees with ‘free market’ provisions almost certain to return the health-care system to the days when insurers aggressively discriminated against anyone old, sick, or poor. Johnson’s rhetoric will also give Democrats an opportunity to remind voters that the last ‘repeal Obamacare’ package aimed to decimate Medicaid, the federal-state health-care program for poor people and a key part of the country’s social safety net. Beyond that, Johnson seemed to to be telling Pennsylvanians a reelected Trump wouldn’t care if his health-care plans made Americans unhappy…”
“Taking a ‘blowtorch’ to health-care regulations that ensure coverage for preexisting conditions and limit price discrimination probably isn’t what swing voters hope for in a Trump administration billing itself as offering a return to American greatness. And the Harris campaign is surely grateful that Trump’s loyal congressional ally is making it known. Could that be the ‘little secret’ Trump cryptically said he and Johnson would reveal after the election? If so, the Speaker spilled the beans at the wrong place and the wrong time.”

The New Republic: Mike Johnson Reveals One of GOP’s First Targets if They Win Congress.

“Only one week from Election Day, Republicans’ closing message is that they plan to take away people’s health care, specifically the Affordable Care Act, if the party retains control of the House.”
“‘The ACA is so deeply ingrained, we need massive reform to make this work and we got a lot of ideas on how to do that.’ ‘If you take government bureaucrats out of the health care equation and you have doctor-patient relationships, it’s better for everybody. More efficient, more effective,’ Johnson added. ‘That’s the free market. Trump’s going to be for the free market.’ Johnson later promised to take a ‘blowtorch to the regulatory state.’”
“Johnson’s promise to ax Obamacare isn’t an offhand remark. Earlier this month, Senator Tom Cotton also promised that if Donald Trump wins the election and the GOP takes control of the Senate, Republicans could ‘make health care more affordable, more tailored and more personalized than the one-size-fits-all option.’ During his four years as president, Trump tried and failed to repeal the ACA, even though the GOP controlled the House and the Senate for two years. During his presidential debate with Kamala Harris last month, Trump reiterated his desire to get rid of the health care law, but when pressed, said he only had ‘concepts of a plan.’ Trump’s running mate, JD Vance, has elaborated on the Trump administration’s current plan, which is to undo much of the ACA’s framework, including its prohibition on health insurance companies’ ability to charge more for preexisting conditions. Johnson’s and Cotton’s comments reveal that he has allies among the Republican leadership on Capitol Hill. The question is whether voters want to elect Trump and allow the GOP to reverse the health care reforms of the previous decade.”

The Guardian: Mike Johnson Promises ‘Massive’ Healthcare Changes If Trump Wins.

“Vice-President Kamala Harris may have received another last-minute helping hand from Republicans after the House speaker, Mike Johnson, said there would be ‘massive’ healthcare changes if Donald Trump wins next Tuesday, including abolishing Obamacare.”
“During the presidential TV debate in September, Trump said he had formed ‘the concepts of a plan’ for replacing Obamacare. The former president proposed a reform plan in the 2020 budget that said it supported ‘several initiatives to empower States and consumers to regain control over healthcare and increase affordability and consumer choice.’ The plan incorporated a repeal of the ACA’s premium subsidies and Medicaid expansion, replacing them with a block grant to states, and would have capped federal spending on Medicaid. The plan could have reduced federal healthcare spending by more than $1tn over a decade.”

Raw Story: Mike Johnson Promises ‘Massive’ Changes To Obamacare If Trump Wins: Report.

“House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) reportedly told a crowd this week that ‘massive’ changes will be coming to health care in the country if Donald Trump defeats Vice President Kamala Harris next week.”
“Johnson in 2017 supported former President Donald Trump’s repeal and replace plan, casting a decisive vote in passing the GOP’s attempt to repeal the Affordable Care Act, which would’ve stripped health coverage and protections for pre-existing conditions for millions of Americans. Johnson has also repeatedly attacked, declaring: ‘Obamacare failed.’ A record number of Americans enrolled this year in the ACA Marketplace, with 21.3 million. This was about double the number of enrollees in 2020. As of May, just under 50 million people had enrolled for health care coverage using the marketplace at some point since its inception in 2014.”

The New York Times: Mike Johnson’s Vow to Overhaul ACA Draws Attention to Unpopular Stance.

“Speaker Mike Johnson said Tuesday that Republicans would embark on a ‘massive reform’ of the Affordable Care Act if former President Donald J. Trump is elected again, putting an unpopular policy position back in the spotlight just days before the election.”
“…should he win the presidency and Republicans take both houses of Congress, there would be major pressure from some corners of the party to make major changes to former President Barack Obama’s signature domestic policy achievement. Nearly 50 million Americans have been covered by health insurance plans through the Affordable Care Act’s marketplaces since they opened a decade ago, and Vice President Kamala Harris has promised to expand enrollment in the popular program if she is elected. She has repeatedly warned voters that Mr. Trump would try to repeal the law if he was elected. Mr. Trump and an all-Republican Congress already tried unsuccessfully to repeal the law, and the fierce backlash to those efforts helped Democrats win control of the House in 2018. In 2020, the Justice Department under Mr. Trump asked the Supreme Court to overturn the law. After threatening a renewed repeal push late last year, Mr. Trump has kept his position vague, a sign of what a political liability the issue has become for his campaign.”

Rolling Stone: Republicans Once Again Have Their Sights Set on the Affordable Care Act.

“With less than a week to go before the election, Donald Trump still hasn’t produced a concrete healthcare plan after teasing that he had ‘concepts’ of one last month. Instead, one of his most prominent allies is wading into radioactive territory for Republicans: vowing to eliminate the Affordable Care Act. On Monday, while speaking to attendees at a House campaign event in Pennsylvania, House Speaker Mike Johnson vowed that under his purview, Republicans would dismantle the healthcare regulatory state.”
“The Republican vendetta against former President Barack Obama’s signature legislation is nothing new. In the 14 years since it was passed, the GOP has repeatedly attempted to repeal or cripple the legislation — with generally poor outcomes. While the moniker ‘Obamacare’ once drew virtually universal disdain from Republican voters, the provisions passed under Obama have since become broadly popular amongst the American public. More than 50 million Americans have obtained health care through the ACA, and in 2024 enrollments saw a notable surge in red states. Efforts to repeal the law are effectively an electoral hot potato, and likely contributed to the GOP’s loss of the House in 2018. With Trump and congressional Republicans battling razor-thin margins in their bid to retake control of Congress and the White House, one would expect them to tread carefully.”

Politico: A Trump Win Could Reshape ACA Coverage.

“Obamacare is stronger than ever ahead of this year’s open enrollment period, which kicks off Friday. But the presidential election could upend that.”
“Former President Donald Trump has said he has the ‘concepts of a plan’ to replace or improve the Affordable Care Act. His campaign said in a statement that he doesn’t want to ‘terminate’ the ACA, and he hopes to bring down costs by ‘increasing transparency, promoting choice and competition, and expanding access to new health care and prescription drug options.’ Trump’s term in office offers clues to how he might approach the popular health insurance program, which has seen record enrollment during President Joe Biden’s term. In 2017, Trump cut marketing funding for open enrollment, and his administration refused to defend the law in court. He expanded options for short-term plans and association health plans, a move conservatives praised and Democrats derided as ‘junk insurance.’”

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ROUNDUP: Democratic Leaders Celebrate ACA Anniversary While Calling Out Trump’s Dangerous Repeal Threats

Saturday marked the 14th anniversary of President Barack Obama signing the Affordable Care Act (ACA) into law. Thanks to the tireless work of President Biden and Democrats in Congress, the 2024 open enrollment period was the most successful in history — a record-breaking 21.4 million Americans signed up for quality, affordable health care. President Biden, former President Barack Obama and Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi made a joint appearance to celebrate the ACA anniversary and to warn against looming Republican threats to destroy the law. At the event and online, Democratic leaders highlighted all of the cost savings and protections under the ACA, including protections for millions of people with pre-existing conditions, savings for over 45 million with premium tax credits and coverage through Medicaid expansion, and free cancer screenings and preventive care for over 150 million patients.

The ACA is stronger and more popular than ever, yet Republicans won’t quit threats of repeal. Just last week, Republicans once again introduced a budget that would strip away protections for people with pre-existing conditions, increase insurance premiums and prescription drug costs, and put Medicaid coverage for tens of millions in jeopardy. Presumptive GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump sabotaged affordable health care and pre-existing condition protections while he was in office, and has renewed his calls to “terminate” the ACA if re-elected at least seven times over the last several months.

HEADLINES

USA Today: Obama, Pelosi Join Biden To Mobilize Voters Ahead Of Affordable Care Act Anniversary. “This weekend marks the 14th anniversary of the ACA’s passage, which provides protections and subsidies to make health care more affordable and policies easy to understand. Biden’s Republican challenger, former President Donald Trump, has campaigned on repealing and replacing the ACA − a stance he has carried since he was in the White House. Congressional Republicans failed in 2017 to overhaul the healthcare plan under Trump’s administration. A record number of Americans enrolled in the ACA for 2024, the Biden administration announced earlier this year. It marked the third consecutive year enrollment has set a record.” [USA Today, 3/20/24]

The Hill: Biden, Democratic Lawmakers Celebrate 14th Anniversary Of Affordable Care Act. “President Biden and many other Democratic lawmakers posted online in celebration of the 14th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) on Saturday. […] The ACA, commonly called ObamaCare, was signed into law by former President Obama, who also highlighted the anniversary with a post. […] Several other Democratic lawmakers posted online celebrating the anniversary and the impacts the ACA has had in the last 14 years. Many warned of a second Trump term and what it could mean for the historic legislation.” [The Hill, 3/23/24]

CNN: Biden And Obama Look To Capitalize On Trump’s Latest Threats To Repeal Obamacare. “Although the Affordable Care Act became law without Republican support, and the GOP spent much of the remainder of Obama’s time in office trying to repeal it, the law has surged in popularity since Trump took office in 2017. Biden campaign officials believe preserving the law is a potent political issue, as Obamacare sign-ups for 2024 coverage hit a record 21.3 million. Trump vowed to repeal the law when he became president but failed to do so – in large part because neither he nor congressional Republicans had a solid replacement health care plan.” [CNN, 3/20/24]

USA Today: Joe Biden, Obama And Pelosi Warn Against Trump’s Push To Repeal Affordable Care Act. “President Joe Biden’s reelection campaign held an organizing call Saturday with supporters championing the Affordable Care Act on its 14th anniversary and warning against former President Donald Trump’s efforts to repeal it in a taped video Friday. Biden was joined by former President Barack Obama and former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi to celebrate the legislation, sometimes referred to as ‘Obamacare.’ The ACA aimed at lowering the costs of health care by expanding Medicaid and offering subsidized private health insurance. Trump has railed against the ACA. During his administration, the former president sought relentlessly to repeal it but congressional Republicans failed to unite behind the effort.” [USA Today, 3/23/24]

The Hill: Biden Campaign Uses ObamaCare Anniversary To Hammer Trump On Health Care. “‘We can’t take this progress for granted. Extreme MAGA Republicans have voted over 50 times to repeal the Affordable Care Act. Just this week, Trump’s allies in the House proposed a budget that would gut this life-saving legislation,’ Biden said in a statement Friday, referring to the Republican Study Committee’s budget proposal. ‘It’s not hyperbole to say that affordable health care for millions of people is on the line in November. I am more determined than ever to beat back MAGA Republican attacks and make health care a right and not a privilege in America,’ Biden said.” [The Hill, 3/22/24]

The New York Times: Obama And Pelosi Appear In Video With Biden Celebrating Health Care Law. “On the 14th anniversary of the signing of the Affordable Care Act on Saturday, President Biden sought to put health care at the center of his re-election campaign, releasing a video featuring former President Barack Obama and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi. The three highlighted key provisions of the Affordable Care Act, which provides subsidies for millions of Americans to buy health insurance, allows people to stay on their parents’ insurance until age 26 and stops insurers from denying or charging more for coverage based on pre-existing conditions. And they emphasized that former President Donald J. Trump, if re-elected, could get rid of it. He tried to do so in his first term, and in November he said Republicans should ‘never give up’ on repealing it.” [The New York Times, 3/24/24]

The Washington Post: Biden, Obama Tout ACA Ahead Of Fundraiser Next Week. “President Biden, former president Barack Obama and former House speaker Nancy Pelosi appeared together in a video released by the Biden campaign Saturday celebrating the 14th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act, and warned that Republican nominee Donald Trump would again try to overturn the law if he wins a second term this November.” [The Washington Post, 3/23/24]

Spectrum News NY1: Biden Taps Obama, Pelosi In Defense Of Affordable Care Act On Campaign Call. “The Biden campaign reached out to pitch what might be lost if former President Donald Trump and his Republican allies win control of the White House and Congress: the Affordable Care Act — colloquially known as Obamacare — and the health insurance rules it mandates. President Joe Biden pulled out a couple of ringers in former President Barack Obama and former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi with the video message, which also marked the 14th anniversary of the ACA’s passage.” [Spectrum News NY1, 3/23/24]

Forbes: 14 Years Of The Affordable Care Act: What It Means For Entrepreneurs. “On March 23, 2010, President Barack Obama signed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, often called the Affordable Care Act (ACA) into law. This has since expanded healthcare coverage to tens of millions of Americans, including small business owners, their employees, and their families. A record 21.3 million Americans currently have healthcare coverage because of the ACA Health Insurance Marketplace. The additional options entrepreneurs have today that were not available 14 years ago are benefitting them in numerous ways. Here are five.” [Forbes, 3/22/24]

IN THE STATES

WHYY News: Pa. Democrats, Doctors Push Preservation Of Affordable Care Act In Face Of Trump’s Promise To Repeal. “North Philadelphia resident Taylor Brothers was a teenager by the time her parents were able to insure her and her siblings. Her waitress mother and truck driver father did not have job-based insurance and could not afford to pay out of pocket for insurance premiums. However, her mother signed them up for subsidized coverage under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), which passed 14 years ago this week. That gave them access to the medicines they needed to treat her psoriasis and the family’s other medical needs. ‘It was a godsend,’ Brothers, now a CPR trainer, told WHYY News. ‘Even though my parents were working, they just couldn’t provide a family of five with health insurance.’ Brothers joined state Sen. Vincent Hughes and local doctors at a press conference warning voters about Donald Trump’s plan to repeal the ACA — as the former president has said several times he would do.” [WHYY News, 3/22/24]

The Philadelphia Tribune: Philadelphia Doctors Rally In Favor Of Affordable Care Act. “Local doctors spoke out in favor of the Affordable Care Act, or ACA for short, and against the threat of former President Donald Trump imposing to repeal the bill that has granted millions of Pennsylvanian’s affordable healthcare. The legislation turned 14 on Thursday. The doctors, joined by Sen. Vincent Hughes, stood firmly as he spoke about the position of the Affordable Care Act’s implementation in the state and how its significance to residents was able to improve the lives of many. […] Trump has zoned on his plans in his campaign to repeal ACA. During his time in office, Trump successfully undermined the act, which lead to a drop in enrollment and consequently weakened protections for people with pre-existing conditions. He was just one vote short of total ACA repeal in 2017.” [The Philadelphia Tribune, 3/21/24]

Fox 11: Nevada Acknowledges 14th Anniversary Of Affordable Care Act’s Impact On Healthcare. “Nevada officials gathered at the Washoe democratic party Coordinated Campaign Office on Thursday to mark the 14th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act and how it impacts Nevadans. According to health officials, the state’s uninsured rate has decreased from nearly 23% in 2010 to about 11% in 2022 since the act was signed into law by former President Obama. Trump has previously said he will try to repeal the Care Act if he is re-elected.” [Fox 11, 3/25/24]

Tucson Sentinel: Southern AZ Supporters Of Affordable Care Act Decry Latest GOP Call For Repeal. “But as the law’s 14th anniversary arrives, the congressional Republican Study Committee this week released a budget policy blueprint calling for the ACA’s repeal and on the campaign trail, presumptive GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump has been vowing to sign legislation eliminating the health insurance law if he returns to the White House. The renewed calls to repeal Obamacare come after a record number of Americans purchased insurance plans through the exchange. New subsidies in the Inflation Reduction Act brought down the price of policies and more than 21.3 million people across the nation signed up for coverage before the 2024 enrollment period ended in January. In Arizona, that number topped 348,000. A full repeal of the law would shut down the online marketplace where people can buy policies, allow insurance companies to hikes rates for or simply refuse to insure people with preexisting conditions, remove the current caps on out-of-pocket spending and no longer require insurance companies to allow children to stay on their parents’ policies until they are 26 years old, among other popular provisions.” [Tucson Sentinel, 3/22/24]

Michigan Advance: Democrats Hail ACA Ahead of Anniversary, Blast GOP Efforts To Repeal it. “Democrats in Michigan are highlighting the Affordable Care Act (ACA), with an event held Wednesday in Lansing, and then several more leading up to Saturday’s anniversary of the landmark legislation. Wednesday’s press conference was hosted by Protect Our Care Michigan, a nonprofit that promotes affordable health care, and contrasted the ACA’s positive impact amid a renewed effort by former President Donald Trump to repeal it if he wins a second term in November.” [Michigan Advance, 3/21/24]

Houston Public Media: Texas Enrollment In The Affordable Care Act Hits Record 3.3 Million. “The number of Texans with health coverage under the Affordable Care Act has reached a new all-time high. Total Texas enrollment in the Affordable Care Act spiked to 3.3 million people in February of this year. Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services announced the news as the program prepares to mark its 14th anniversary on Saturday. […] The latest developments come as Republicans are making fresh efforts to dismantle the program. Former President Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, has repeatedly said on the campaign trail that he would once again seek to repeal the program if he defeats President Joe Biden in the fall. Trump tried and failed to repeal the Affordable Care Act during his prior term in office. Meanwhile, the House Republican Study Committee has proposed a budget for the next fiscal year that would fully defund the Affordable Care Act. The group contains most of the Texas Republican House delegation, including Houston-area GOP Congressmen Brian Babin, Dan Crenshaw, Morgan Luttrell, Michael McCaul, and Troy Nehls.” [Houston Public Media, 3/22/24]

NJ Spotlight News (Opinion): Protecting The Progress Of The Affordable Care Act. “The Affordable Care Act, commonly known as ‘Obamacare,’ was enacted 14 years ago this week. This landmark legislation made sweeping changes to improve access to and quality of health coverage: It expanded Medicaid, established marketplaces for consumers to easily shop for health insurance, banned insurers from discriminating against people with preexisting conditions, created subsidies for middle-class Americans and required most insurance plans to cover essential health benefits including preventive services, mental health and maternity care. It was controversial on its passage, but the ACA has proven itself resilient over the past 14 years, and now a majority of Americans view it favorably. However, former President Donald Trump has promised that, if elected again, he will work to repeal the law. So, before this November, it is important to take stock of what the ACA has accomplished, what challenges remain and what bright spots are on the horizon.” [NJ Spotlight News (Opinion), 3/25/24]

STATEMENTS

President Joe Biden: “14 years later, the Affordable Care Act is still a very big deal. Today, more Americans have health insurance than under any other President. I’m committed to building on the progress we’ve made by making lower premiums permanent for millions of families.” [President Biden, X, 3/23/24]

Vice President Kamala Harris: “Donald Trump wants to ‘terminate’ the Affordable Care Act. If he’s successful, over 40 million people will lose their health coverage. Protecting access to health care is on the ballot in November.” [Kamala Harris, X, 3/23/24]

HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra: In Celebration of 10 Years of ACA Marketplaces, the Biden-Harris Administration Releases Historic Enrollment Data. “On the ten-year anniversary of the ACA Marketplaces, HHS is releasing data that shows just how profoundly it has reshaped what health care looks like for so many Americans. The Marketplaces have become a pillar of American society, a guaranteed place where people can find affordable, quality coverage. Thanks to President Biden’s leadership, more than 21 million Americans have health insurance through the Affordable Care Act Marketplaces, an all-time high, with millions of families saving hundreds of dollars every month. At HHS, we will keep doing everything we can to ensure more people have access to affordable, high-quality health care and the peace of mind that comes with it.” [HHS Press Release, 3/22/24]

CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure: “Today, we celebrate the #AffordableCareAct’s 14th anniversary! @CMSgov continues to build on the #ACA, lowering costs and expanding coverage so that every American has the peace of mind that health insurance brings! #ACA14” [Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, X, 3/23/24]

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-CA): “14 years ago: The Affordable Care Act became law! Now we mark how far we’ve come to expand access to quality, affordable health care—but the fight isn’t over. The GOP promises to repeal it. We won’t stop fighting to expand coverage, lower costs, and protect Medicare and Medicaid.” [Chuck Schumer, X, 3/23/24]

House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-CA-11): “We have the Affordable Care Act to celebrate today because of the outside mobilization of the grassroots who helped Democrats pass it in 2010 and save it from Trump and his MAGA minions — and we’ll Save Our Health Care again! #HappyBirthdayACA” [Nancy Pelosi, X, 3/23/24]

Senate Majority Whip Richard Durbin (D-IL): “14 years ago, I stood alongside President Obama as he signed the ACA into law. Despite its achievements, congressional Republicans, with Donald Trump leading the charge, have continued trying to repeal the law. We cannot let them succeed.” [Senator Dick Durbin, X, 3/24/24]

Senate President Pro Tempore Patty Murray (D-WA): “Republicans have tried to repeal the Affordable Care Act more than *50 times*—and now they’re gearing up to do it again. ACA repeal would rip health care coverage away from millions of people, send costs soaring, end protections for pre-existing conditions—& more.” [Senator Patty Murray, X, 3/23/24]

Senate Democratic Conference Chair of Policy & Communications Debbie Stabenow (D-MI): “14 years ago, I worked with @SpeakerPelosi and my colleagues to write the Affordable Care Act and deliver health care coverage to nearly 46 million Americans. Today, we celebrate this historic law!” [Sen. Debbie Stabenow, X, 3/23/24]

Senate Democratic Conference Vice Chair Elizabeth Warren (D-MA): “14 years ago today, President Obama signed the Affordable Care Act into law. It’s still a BFD. Health insurers can’t deny coverage because of pre-existing conditions. The uninsured rate has hit record lows. And Democrats have lowered premiums under President Biden’s leadership…But understand this: Donald Trump & his Republican buddies are still trying to repeal the Affordable Care Act & threaten health care for tens of millions of Americans. That’s on their agenda if they take back power. So make no mistake: health care is on the ballot this November.” [Elizabeth Warren, X, 3/23/24, 3/23/24]

Senate Democratic Conference Vice Chair Mark Warner (D-VA): “Happy birthday to the ACA! For fourteen years, this seismic law has been lowering costs for Americans and covering millions for the first time. I’m proud to have voted for it, and I never get tired of hearing how it has helped Virginians.” [Mark Warner, X, 3/23/24]

Senate Democratic Conference Outreach Chair Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV): “14 years ago, President Obama signed the Affordable Care Act into law. I will always fight alongside @SenateDems to defend and build on the ACA, because it’s made all the difference for Nevada families to get the quality care they need.” [Senator Cortez Masto, X, 3/23/24]

Senate Democratic Conference Vice Chair of Policy & Communications Cory Booker (D-NJ): “The Affordable Care Act has saved Americans money and gotten them the care they need, from checkups to life-saving operations. We must protect and strengthen Obamacare.” [Cory Booker, X, 3/23/24]

Senate Democratic Conference Secretary Tammy Baldwin (D-WI): “Happy Birthday, Affordable Care Act! Passing the ACA & providing Wisconsinites with affordable health care is one of my proudest accomplishments. As Republicans continue to try to repeal it & gut protections for people with pre-existing conditions, I’ll fight it at every turn.” [Sen. Tammy Baldwin, X, 3/23/24]

Deputy Secretary of the Senate Democratic Conference Brian Schatz (D-HI): “For the past 14 years, the Affordable Care Act has provided tens of millions of Americans with health care they otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford. Democrats have built on the ACA, lowering premiums and drug prices. Republicans are threatening to take it all away.” [Senator Brian Schatz, X, 3/23/24]

Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee Member Bob Casey (D-PA): “14 years ago, the Affordable Care Act became law, expanding health care coverage for millions of Americans, protecting people with pre-existing conditions & much more. I’m proud to have supported the ACA & will keep fighting to make sure every American has access to health care.” [Senator Bob Casey, X, 3/23/24]

Senator Peter Welch (D-VT): “The Affordable Care Act lets young adults stay on their parents’ health insurance until 26, protects women and patients with pre-existing conditions from discrimination, and helps millions get covered. 14 years since Democrats passed the ACA into law, it’s stronger than ever.” [Senator Peter Welch, X, 3/23/24]

Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH): “14 years of the #AffordableCareAct means 14 years of: ✅ Protecting Ohioans with preexisting conditions ✅Expanding Medicaid ❌ Defending against attempts to repeal the ACA. We’ll keep fighting to make health care more affordable & accessible for all.” [Sherrod Brown, X, 3/23/24]

House Minority Whip Katherine Clark (D-MA): “14 years ago today, President Obama signed the #AffordableCareAct into law — bringing quality health coverage to millions of households. With every passing year, the ACA has made us a stronger, healthier country. Now, MAGA extremists are trying to wipe it off the books.” [Katherine Clark, X, 3/23/24]

House Minority Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar (D-CA): “Today marks 14 years since the Affordable Care Act was signed into law! The ACA has changed countless lives in the Inland Empire by lowering health care costs & getting folks insured. Glad to join @SupervisorBaca, @CHSI_Clinics & @IEHP_healthcare to celebrate this milestone.” [Rep. Pete Aguilar, X, 3/23/24]

Assistant House Minority Leader James Clyburn (D-SC): “When President Obama was elected in 2008, over 40 million Americans lacked health insurance. Democrats passed the Affordable Care Act, the biggest healthcare expansion since Medicare. 14 years later, under @POTUS Biden, more than 21 million now have affordable ACA healthcare.” [James E. Clyburn, X, 3/23/24]

House Energy & Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone Jr. (D-NJ): “14 years ago, I stood beside President Obama as he signed the Affordable Care Act into law. Today, more than 45 million Americans have health care coverage as a result. We’ve come a long way and we’re not going back. I’ll always stand up to protect Americans’ health care.” [Rep. Frank Pallone, X, 3/23/24]

House Ways & Means Committee Ranking Member Richard Neal (D-MA): “OTD in 2010, @BarackObama signed the Affordable Care Act into law. As I said on the House floor on November 7, 2009, ‘We’re building a baseline of health care for the American family.’ 14 years later, the results speak for themselves. Thank you, @BarackObama. Thank you, @POTUS.” [Rep. Richard Neal, X, 3/23/24]

House Education & Labor Committee Ranking Member Bobby Scott (D-VA): “14 years ago, @BarackObama signed the Affordable Care Act. Since then, over 40 million people have gained health insurance and millions of Americans with pre-existing conditions are now protected. All of that progress is at risk if Donald Trump and the GOP win this fall.” [Bobby Scott, X, 3/23/24]

House Education & Labor Committee Member Susan Wild (D-PA-07): “For 14 years, the Affordable Care Act has provided quality affordable health coverage for Pennsylvanians, and Americans across the country. Let’s continue to build on this progress and make health coverage more affordable and accessible for everyone! #ACA14” [Rep. Susan Wild, X, 3/23/24]

Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14): “Happy Birthday to the #AffordableCareAct! For 14 years this historic law has protected people like me with preexisting conditions and helped millions of Americans get quality, affordable care.” [Rep. Lauren Underwood, X, 3/23/24]

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper: “[W]hile President Biden and Vice President Harris are doing everything they can to protect and even strengthen the Affordable Care Act, we know that Donald Trump has promised to repeal this law with no serious plan to replace it or help the hundreds of millions of people who would be harmed and we better take him at his word on this one because when he was president gutting the Affordable Care Act was one of the few promises that he actually tried to keep. […] Joe Biden as vice president under President Obama was crucial in helping to negotiate and pass this Affordable Care Act 14 years ago. And he’s still even more committed to lowering cost and expanding access to care and making the health care system work for everyday people, not big pharma, not the insurance companies.” [WRAL News, 3/21/24]

ashoup In News, Roundup

ROUND UP: “New Era in Medicare” Begins with Opening Offers in Negotiation to Lower Drug Prices

The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services took another major step to lower the prices of prescription drugs and end the days of drug companies charging whatever they want. Kicking off the first round of negotiations made possible by provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act, Medicare made its initial offer to drugmakers. The Inflation Reduction Act’s Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program will lower prices for some of the highest-cost prescription drugs that seniors rely on to treat conditions like cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders – conditions that disproportionately impact women, communities of color, and people in rural areas. Meanwhile, every Republican voted in Congress voted against the Inflation Reduction Act and Republicans have now introduced legislation to repeal it and are fighting to protect drug company profits. Final negotiated prices will be announced in September and will take effect in 2026.

HEADLINES

The Washington Post: Today: Biden Administration Makes Opening Offers In Drug-Price Negotiation Program. “Negotiations must end by Aug. 1. If the companies and health officials agree, the new prices will take effect in 2026. The White House put serious muscle behind its announcement. The administration released a new analysis about high U.S. drug costs, shared a high-level memo, launched a new LowerDrugCosts.gov site to inform Medicare beneficiaries… Leslie Dach, the chair of Protect Our Care, a Democrat-aligned health advocacy group, called Thursday’s move “a giant step forward” in efforts to lower U.S. drug prices. “Medicare negotiation means more seniors will be able to afford the medications they need to stay alive,” he added in a statement.” [The Washington Post, 2/1/24]

The New York Times: U.S. Makes Initial Offers In Medicare Drug Price Negotiations. “The initial round of price offers is a key step in the negotiation process. Each drugmaker has until early March to accept the offer or propose a counteroffer to the government. A series of negotiation sessions could follow, with the process set to conclude by August. Health policy experts said the announcement of the initial round of offers amounted to a kind of starting gun, giving the Biden administration the chance to take an aggressive posture and test the willingness of drugmakers to acquiesce.” [The New York Times, 2/1/24]

Axios: The Challenge For Medicare Drug Negotiators: How To Value A Medicine’s Benefits. “It sets off a monthslong back-and-forth with drugmakers before final prices are revealed in September — all while the industry fiercely contests the negotiations in court… The law is explicit about factors that Medicare has to consider when coming up with that price, including how much it costs to manufacture or distribute the drug and the manufacturer’s research and development costs… A study published last year in JAMA found that of the 50 top-selling Medicare drugs in 2020, more than half were deemed by assessment organizations in Canada, France, and Germany to offer little to no therapeutic benefit over existing therapies.” [Axios, 2/1/24]

Politico: CMS Sends First Price Offers To Drugmakers. “CMS has promised to use several factors to calculate the prices, such as whether the product has a therapeutic equivalent and the overall research and development costs. But during a call with reporters Wednesday evening, Biden administration officials declined to say how much savings the initial price offers would generate. A previous estimate showed that, between June, 2022 and May, 2023, the 10 drugs cost the federal government $50.5 billion.” [Politico, 2/1/24]

STAT: Biden Administration Makes Opening Offers In Medicare Drug Price Negotiations. “The offers will not be made public unless a manufacturer chooses to publicly disclose information about the talks, a senior administration official said. Companies have until March 2 to either accept the government’s offer or propose a counteroffer. The Biden administration will publish the final prices by Sept. 1 of this year after the negotiation process ends. The negotiated prices won’t take effect until 2026.” [STAT, 2/1/24]

USA Today: Medicare Drug Price Negotiations Kick Off With Price Offers On These 10 Drugs. “Under President Joe Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, another 30 drugs will be selected over the next two years for negotiated prices that will be rolled out in 2027 and 2028. HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra heralded a “new era in Medicare” with the federal heath program’s newfound authority to negotiate drug prices under Biden’s signature health and climate legislation… A senior Biden administration official said the president has said drug companies should have a fair return on their investments but noted the drug selected for negotiation have been on the market for years without generic alternatives.” [USA Today, 2/1/24]

CNN: Medicare Drug Price Negotiations Start After Biden Administration Makes Initial Offers. “CMS considered multiple factors when developing its initial offer, including the drugs’ clinical benefits and the price of alternatives, among others. The agency also held listening sessions so patients and others could provide input on the selected drugs. The discounts will range from at least 25% to 60% off the non federal average manufacturer price, depending on when the drugs were approved… In the first two years of negotiations, CMS will select only Part D drugs that are purchased at pharmacies. It will add Part B drugs, which are administered by doctors, to the mix for 2028.” [CNN, 2/1/24]

The Wall Street Journal: U.S. Medicare Drug-Price Negotiations Start Now. “Under a new U.S. law, the federal government on Thursday is sending its initial offers of how much it is willing to pay for Medicare patients’ use of an initial batch of 10 cancer, diabetes and other drugs to Johnson & Johnson, Merck and other big companies… At stake are tens of billions of dollars in spending by the Medicare program for seniors, and equally large revenues for the industry. Medicare patients taking the drugs might see savings in out-of-pocket costs, though that could vary widely by drug.” [The Wall Street Journal, 2/1/24]

ashoup In News, Roundup

ROUND UP: Affordable Care Act Enrollment Soars With Record 21.3 Million Signing Up For Coverage

“At a time when more Americans are enrolling in the ACA than ever before, it is outlandish that the likely GOP nominee is even considering another attempt at repeal,” said Brad Woodhouse, executive director of Protect Our Care.

Yesterday, the Biden administration announced that a record-breaking 21.3 million Americans have signed up for health care on the Affordable Care Act Marketplace for 2024 coverage. Thanks to the Biden-Harris administration’s Inflation Reduction Act, four out of five enrollees were able to find a plan for $10 or less per month. Even as more Americans are relying on the ACA than ever, presumptive GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump has continued his threats to repeal the Affordable Care Act and throw millions of families off their health care coverage.

HEADLINES

The Washington Post: Obamacare Enrollment Hits Record Level As Trump Vows Repeal. “‘At a time when more Americans are enrolling in the ACA than ever before, it is outlandish that the likely GOP nominee is even considering another attempt at repeal,’ Brad Woodhouse, executive director of Protect Our Care, a Democrat-aligned health-care advocacy group, said in a statement. About 3 in 5 voters — including 1 in 5 Republicans — trust Democratic politicians more than Republicans to handle the future of the Affordable Care Act, according to polling released last month by KFF.” [The Washington Post, 1/24/24]

CNN: Obamacare Sign-Ups Hit Record 21.3 Million As Biden Pushes His Efforts To Lower Health Care Costs. “Nearly 5 million more people signed up for Obamacare policies for this year compared with last year, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, which oversees the Affordable Care Act marketplaces, said Wednesday. Notably, about a quarter of people selecting plans were new consumers… The explosion in interest in Obamacare policies would make it harder for Trump to dismantle the health reform law, as he and congressional Republicans unsuccessfully tried to do after he took office in 2017. Only about 12.2 million people signed up for Affordable Care Act coverage during that open enrollment period.” [CNN, 1/24/24]

Modern Healthcare: Open Enrollment Breaks 21M For 2024. “Nearly 4.2 million people with incomes of less than 250% of the federal poverty level signed up for 2024 coverage, the agency said. Medicaid redeterminations that began last year helped push up the numbers. As of Dec. 31, about 15% of people who enrolled through the federal HealthCare.gov portal were previously enrolled in Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program.” [Modern Healthcare, 1/24/24]

Spectrum News: Record 21.3 Million Signed Up For Affordable Care Act Plans, Biden Announces. “The number represents a more than 30% increase from the previous year, when 16.3 million Americans signed up, according to the White House. In total, 9 million additional people have enrolled in plans through HealthCare.gov or state-based marketplaces since Biden took office three years ago… Health policy experts have attributed the increase in enrollments largely to federal subsidies for people purchasing plans. The subsidies were included in two pieces of major legislation spearheaded by Biden: the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act.” [Spectrum News, 1/24/24]

Axios: ACA Enrollment Surged In Red States This Year. “The 30.7% annual increase in ACA sign-ups comes as former President Trump’s renewed calls for repeal have again raised doubts about the law’s future. Enrollment figures released by federal health officials on Wednesday indicate that Republican-leaning states would be heavily affected by the law’s repeal. States with the largest year-over-year increase in sign-ups include West Virginia (80.2%), Louisiana (75.9%), Ohio (62.2%), Indiana (59.5%) and Tennessee (59.5%), according to data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, which oversees the marketplaces.” [Axios, 1/24/24]

The Hill: Obamacare Marks Third Year of Record Enrollment With 5 Million More Sign-Ups. “Biden called for lowered premiums enacted through the Inflation Reduction Act to be made permanent. The president also went after Republicans in Congress for having ‘a different vision. … Their recent budget would get rid of the improvements I signed into law, raising costs for millions of people,” Biden said. “If the extreme Republicans in Congress get their way, millions of families would face skyrocketing health care costs or lose their health care altogether. I won’t let it happen on my watch, and I’ll keep fighting to bring down health care and prescription drug costs.’” [The Hill, 1/24/24]

Reuters: US Signs Up Record 21.3 Million People for 2024 Obamacare Plans. “‘For decades, when it came to federal programs we could depend on to keep Americans covered, three were always top of mind — Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security, but now it’s crystal clear that we need to add a fourth — the Affordable Care Act,’ said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra.” [Reuters, 1/24/24]

MSNBC: ACA Enrollment Totals Soar as Republicans Renew Attacks. “For health care advocates, the data is encouraging on its own, and it reflects what’s possible when congressional Democrats lower premiums and an administration commits to covering as many Americans as possible.” [MSNBC, 1/25/24]

AlterNet: Trump’s Call To Repeal Obamacare Blasted As ‘Outlandish’ As Signups Hit New Record High. “‘At a time when more Americans are enrolling in the ACA than ever before, it is outlandish that the likely GOP nominee is even considering another attempt at repeal,’ Brad Woodhouse, who is executive director of the progressive nonprofit Protect Our Care, told the Post.” [AlterNet, 1/24/24]

PoliticoPro: Biden Touts Record Obamacare Numbers Ahead Of Reelection Campaign. “The record-breaking signups during the latest open enrollment mean that 9 million more people have gotten Obamacare coverage since Biden took office in 2021. One of the drivers for the signups are enhanced subsidies passed as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Those premiums though expire after 2025.” [PoliticoPro, 1/24/24]

STATEMENTS

President Joe Biden: “The American people have made it clear: they don’t want the Affordable Care Act weakened and repealed – they want it strengthened and protected. We need to build on the progress we’ve made by making lower premiums permanent. But Republicans in Congress have a different vision. … If the extreme Republicans in Congress get their way, millions of families would face skyrocketing health care costs or lose their health care altogether. I won’t let it happen on my watch, and I’ll keep fighting to bring down health care and prescription drug costs.” [President Joe Biden Statement, 1/24/24]

HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra: “For decades, when it came to federal programs we could depend on to keep Americans covered, three were always top of mind — Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security, but now it’s crystal clear that we need to add a fourth — the Affordable Care Act. Once again, a record-breaking number of Americans have signed up for affordable health care coverage through the Affordable Care Act’s Marketplace, and now they and their families have the peace of mind that comes with coverage. The ACA continues to be a successful, popular, and important federal program to millions of people and their families.” [HHS Press Release, 1/24/24]

Democratic Leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries: “Under the leadership of President Biden, Democrats have delivered on our promise to make health care more affordable and accessible for American families. Today’s announcement means more than 21 million people will have high-quality, affordable health care in 2024, shattering all previous Open Enrollment Period records.” [Rep. Hakeem Jeffries Statement, 1/24/24]

House Energy & Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone Jr.: “While Trump vows to repeal the ACA, a historic 21 MILLION Americans have signed up for health care coverage already this year. That’s no coincidence. Democrats protected the law, lowered monthly premiums, and invested to help people sign up for coverage.” [@EnergyCommerce, 1/24/24]

House Education & Labor Committee Ranking Member Bobby Scott: “MAGA Republicans are intent on repealing the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Last Congress, @POTUS and Congressional Democrats strengthened the ACA by passing the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act. We will continue to build on this progress and #ProtectOurCare.” [X, 1/24/24]

Representative Kathy Castor: “We have just hit an all-time high in the number of Americans who have affordable health care coverage because of the Affordable Care Act. The Affordable Care Act is keeping people healthy and helping to keep money in their pockets at a time that they need it. Millions of Floridians and millions of Americans have peace of mind that a preexisting condition or medical diagnosis will not bankrupt them.” [Protect Our Care Press Conference, 1/24/24]

Representative Lauren Underwood: “Today is one of my favorite days in Congress because today is a health care day! This is the third straight year of record-breaking enrollment, with more than 23 million Americans signing up for coverage on the Affordable Care Act marketplaces. We’ve reached this milestone in part because of my Health Care Affordability Act, which has helped four out of five people find coverage for $10 or less. Congress must build on this progress and make these savings permanent.” [Protect Our Care Press Conference, 1/24/24]

ashoup In News, Roundup

ROUNDUP: Democrats Celebrate the First Year of the Inflation Reduction Act

President Biden and Democratic Lawmakers Are Lowering Health Care Costs and Giving Families the Relief They Need

One year ago, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law, driving down health care costs for seniors and families nationwide. This was a huge win in the ongoing fight for affordable health care. Between lowering premium costs for families by $2,400 on average, capping insulin costs, and stopping drug companies’ egregious price hikes, the new legislation is already working for the American people. Soon, seniors’ drug costs will be capped at $2,000 annually, and Medicare will finally be able to negotiate lower drug prices.

However, Republicans refuse to give up on their war on health care. They have reverted to some of the oldest tricks in the book and introduced numerous bills to repeal the Inflation Reduction Act and put drug and insurance companies back in charge. Meanwhile, in the courts, big drug companies have filed lawsuits against the federal government to try to stop Medicare from negotiating lower prices for millions of seniors.

Here’s what Democrats are saying about the anniversary of their historic victory:

BIDEN ADMINISTRATION

President Joe Biden: “One year ago, on August 16, 2022, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law…The Inflation Reduction Act is a transformative law that is helping the United States meet its climate goals and strengthen energy security, investing in America to create good-paying jobs, reducing energy and health care costs for families, and making the tax code fairer. […] Nearly 15 million people are saving an average of $800 per year on their health insurance premiums, the nation’s uninsured rate has reached a historic low, and millions of seniors on Medicare are paying less in out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs—including insulin, which is capped at $35 per month. […] The Inflation Reduction Act advances President Biden, Vice President Harris, and Congressional Democrats’ longstanding commitment to making health care more affordable for American families and seniors. The law is bringing down health care costs and thanks to President Biden, Vice President Harris, and the Inflation Reduction Act’s continuation of important improvements on the Affordable Care Act, the nation’s uninsured rate has reached an historic low, and nearly 15 million people are saving an average of $800 per year on their insurance premiums.” [White House Press Release, 8/16/23]

Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra: “The first anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act is cause for celebration, as millions of Americans are already saving money on health care. As a result of this law, individuals purchasing Marketplace coverage are paying less in premiums, people with Medicare are benefiting from the $35 cap on insulin, and saving on free, recommended vaccines, and we are strengthening Medicare for the next generation. The Biden-Harris Administration is delivering lower prescription drug costs, making health insurance more affordable, and making the economy work for working families.” [Department of Health and Human Services Press Release, 8/16/23]

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure: “The historic Inflation Reduction Act builds on the Biden-Harris Administration’s efforts to make health care more affordable and accessible that are life changing for millions of Americans. On this first anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act, Americans are seeing the benefits – such as free recommended vaccines, lower insulin costs, and the enhanced tax credits that help more people afford their premiums in the Marketplaces.” [Department of Health and Human Services Press Release, 8/16/23]

U.S. CONGRESS

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY): “The Inflation Reduction Act was one of the most consequential pieces of legislation passed in decades, and in just one year it’s already paying huge dividends for the American people, for our economy, and for our climate. Democrats are proud of the progress we’ve made in implementing our agenda, and we will keep working until every American feels the benefits.” [Senate Democratic Caucus Press Release, 7/27/23]

House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (D-MA-5): “One year ago, President Biden and Congressional Democrats enacted the Inflation Reduction Act to make good on our promise of progress and prosperity for everyday Americans — and we are proud to see that it is already delivering. In just its first year, the Inflation Reduction Act has slashed the cost of insulin to $35 per month for seniors and secured affordable health coverage for nearly 15 million Americans — saving them an average of $800 a year. It has spurred over $270 billion in private sector investments, creating more than 170,000 good-paying, green jobs in 44 states. And it has injected fairness into our tax system, ensuring billionaires and wealthy corporations pay their fair share — all while paving our path toward a carbon-free, climate-resilient future. Democrats know the best way to grow America’s economy is by growing the middle class. Through the Inflation Reduction Act, we are cutting costs and building the stronger, safer, more sustainable future that Americans deserve.” [House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark Press Release, 8/16/23]

Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-CA-11): “When President Biden affixed his signature to the Inflation Reduction Act one year ago today, America not only made history – but we made progress on the most pressing challenge of our times. […] At the same time, families are feeling the impact of this landmark law at their kitchen table. At long last, Medicare will soon have the power to negotiate the price of prescription drugs. Seniors can now get insulin for just $35 a month. And fifteen million Americans are saving an average of $800 per year on health insurance through ACA exchanges.” [Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi Press Release, 8/16/23]

Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), Chair of the Special Committee on Aging: “One year ago, Democrats enacted the Inflation Reduction Act to fulfill President Biden’s promise to lower costs for families and tackle the climate crisis. Because of this law, seniors and families are spending less on their prescription drugs, Americans are spending less on their electricity bills, and we’re on the cusp of a manufacturing renaissance in the United States. By investing in America’s clean energy capabilities, we’re on track to meet our climate goals. Pennsylvania families and communities are feeling the impacts of the Inflation Reduction Act, but I’m proud to say that the best of this law is yet to come.” [Senator Bob Casey Press Release, 8/16/23]

Representative Frank Pallone (D-NJ-06), Ranking Member of the Committee on Energy & Commerce: “The Inflation Reduction Act is delivering for the American people, and it will continue to do so for years to come. The law is making prescription drugs and health care more affordable for millions of American families. Already this year, seniors are paying less for lifesaving insulin as the law caps the cost at $35 per month. Now, pharmaceutical companies have followed suit and are lowering the cost of insulin for more Americans, something that simply would not have happened without the passage of this law. Drug companies are also being forced to pay penalties when they raise prices above the rate of inflation, which has resulted in seniors receiving discounts on 43 drugs so far this year. And next month, the Department of Health and Human Services will announce the first 10 drugs it plans to negotiate lower prices on so seniors are no longer paying outrageously high prices. It is also dramatically lowering the cost of monthly health insurance premiums for millions of Americans, with four in five customers able to find health care coverage for $10 or less per month on HealthCare.gov.” [Representative Frank Pallone Press Release, 8/16/23]

Representative Richard Neal (D-MA-1), Ranking Member of the Committee on Ways and Means: “This first anniversary serves as a powerful reminder of what Democrats could achieve for the American people with a tight majority and goes to show, that where there’s a will there’s a way. From capping the cost of insulin for seniors to unlocking a new era of service at the IRS or spurring the single largest federal investment in climate action, the IRA is chock full of wins for the American people. Ways and Means Democrats proudly led on so much of this landmark law—saving families an average of $2400 on their health premiums, allowing Medicare to negotiate drug prices for the first time, and driving historic manufacturing and energy investments—and responsibly funded it by holding the wealthiest corporations accountable for their fair share. […] The promise of the Inflation Reduction Act shines bright after its first year and is only getting brighter.” [Representative Richard Neal Press Release, 8/16/23]

Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ): “A year ago today, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law. This historic legislation, which I was proud to support, was designed to lower costs, grow the middle class, and invest in our nation’s green energy future – and it is delivering on its promise. […] In the year since, seniors are paying less at the pharmacy counter, families are seeing reductions in their monthly energy bills, and the nation is pivoting faster than expected towards clean energy while we combat the global climate crisis. Simply put, our efforts are paying dividends for the American people, for the economy, and for the environment. The Inflation Reduction Act is a prime of example of what is possible when we prioritize helping hardworking families thrive.” [Senator Bob Menendez Press Release, 8/16/23]

Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV): “The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) is one of the most historic pieces of legislation passed in decades for working and middle class families, and we are already seeing real results across West Virginia. While some across both parties and the Administration have chosen to play political games with this important legislation, the IRA included $238 billion in debt reduction, lowered the cost of prescription drug prices for millions of seniors – including more than 400,000 West Virginians on Medicare, capped insulin at $35 for seniors, and secured permanent funding for the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund.” [Senator Joe Manchin Press Release, 8/16/23]

Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI): “The Inflation Reduction Act is making a real difference in the lives of Wisconsin’s working families, and I am proud to have voted for it. Seniors across Wisconsin are saving hundreds of dollars a month on the cost of their prescription drugs because we took on big drug companies and capped the cost of insulin at $35 per month. Hundreds of thousands of Wisconsinites are saving on their monthly health care premiums. […] Big corporations are finally paying their fair share of taxes and we are cutting the deficit. I know we have more work to do to lower costs for families, but I am proud that our Inflation Reduction Act is delivering needed relief for working families and growing our Made in Wisconsin economy.” [Senator Tammy Baldwin Press Release, 8/16/23]

Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA): “[F]amilies are seeing the cost of life-saving medications lowered and the American Rescue Plan’s Affordable Care Act premium subsidies extended — preventing nearly one million low-income Californians’ premium costs from doubling. And we are funding these efforts by requiring billion-dollar corporations to finally pay their fair share in taxes. Thanks to the IRA, one year later we are celebrating reduced costs for working families and historic climate and health care investments in America. This is why the American people sent us to Congress — and why we will continue working to build on this historic progress — so that Californians have more money in their pockets, cleaner air to breathe, and a healthier future ahead.” [Senator Alex Padilla Press Release, 8/16/23]

Senator Peter Welch (D-VT): “The passage of the Inflation Reduction Act was a win for Vermont families, our economy, and the green energy future–and one year later it’s clear this law is delivering on its promises for our communities. We worked closely with the Biden Administration to include key Vermont priorities in this bill–including provisions to lower the cost of prescription drugs, expand access to home energy upgrades, and tackle climate change. And importantly, it will create good-paying jobs right here in Vermont. Making sure this law–and the transformative programs within it–get implemented quickly and fairly will be key. No person, and no community, should be left out.” [Senator Peter Welch Press Release, 8/16/23]

Representative Steny Hoyer (D-MD-5): “A year later, America still feels the positive impacts of the Inflation Reduction Act. Inflation has fallen by two thirds since last summer. […] Additionally, thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, 69.3 million seniors have saved money on their prescription drug costs, and the 16.3 million people who receive their health insurance through the Affordable Care Act are saving an average $800 a year on their health premiums. From capping monthly insulin costs for millions of Medicare beneficiaries to creating green jobs across the country, the Inflation Reduction Act is a cornerstone in Democrats’ Investing in America agenda.” [Representative Steny Hoyer Press Release, 8/16/23]

Representative Susan Wild (D-PA-07): “I’ve been taking on Big Pharma in the fight to get health care costs and drug prices down since my first day in Congress. The Inflation Reduction Act is a huge win in that fight. It’s making a real difference for Pennsylvania families and seniors by lowering health care costs, and by investing in clean energy and growing our economy. A year after I worked to pass the IRA into law, I’m keeping up the work to get costs down and build an economy that works for working people.” [Representative Susan Wild Press Release, 8/16/23]

Representative Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04): “One year ago, President Biden signed House Democrats’ transformative Inflation Reduction Act into law. […] The IRA allowed Medicare to negotiate the price of certain prescription drugs for the first time, reduced the cost of insulin to $35 per month for seniors, and expanded affordable health care coverage to more Americans by enhancing subsidies under the Affordable Care Act and lowering premiums by an average of $800 per month. These are important steps in our continued efforts to ensure every American has access to quality, affordable health care and the life-saving prescription drugs they need. […] We have made tremendous progress since the IRA was signed into law, and we will continue to see the benefits of this legislation for years to come. As the provisions within the bill are implemented, I will work with the Biden-Harris Administration and relevant agencies to ensure Virginia’s Fourth continues to benefit from this historic legislation.” [Representative Jennifer McClellan Press Release, 8/16/23]

Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison, Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee Chair Senator Gary Peters, and Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chair Representative Suzan DelBene: “Democrats took historic steps to address Americans’ most pressing priority: lowering costs on everything from prescription drugs to energy bills – all while helping grow jobs here in our country and tackling the climate crisis. While Democrats fought to lower costs, Republicans stood on the side of big drug companies, big oil companies, and other mega corporations that get rich by keeping prices high. Democrats remain committed to putting the interests of working families first. And that’s why voters will stand with Democrats in 2024.” [Democratic National Committee Press Release, 8/16/23]

EVENTS

President Joe Biden held a press conference delivering remarks on the anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act. [White House Live, 8/16/23]

Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) held a round table to highlight four different stories of how the Inflation Reduction Act is helping one year in. [X, 8/16/23]

Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Chair of the Finance Committee Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) held a press conference with AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins, Protect Our Care Executive Director Brad Woodhouse, and Irv Varkonyi, a Virginia senior on Medicare, celebrating the progress made to lower health care costs for Americans ahead of the one-year anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act. [Facebook Live, 7/27/23]

HEADLINES

Newsweek: Opinion: Representative Pallone: Republicans Want You to Pay More for Medicine – Again. “One year ago this week, I joined President Joe Biden as he signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law. This transformational law finally reversed longstanding legal restrictions put in place by a Republican Congress 20 years ago that explicitly prevented Medicare from negotiating with pharmaceutical companies on the prices seniors pay for prescription drugs. Other nations negotiate lower prices for their citizens and so it’s only fair that the United States should be able to do the same. Negotiating drug prices is not only good for seniors’ wallets, making the lifesaving drugs they need more affordable, but also for taxpayers and national spending. The drug pricing reforms included in the Inflation Reduction Act are expected to cut the federal deficit by $237 billion over 10 years, saving taxpayers billions of dollars and extending Medicare’s solvency for years to come.” [Newsweek, 8/14/23]

New Hampshire Bulletin: Opinion: Expanding Affordable Health Care In New Hampshire. “One year ago, the Inflation Reduction Act became law. I’m thrilled to be traveling coast to coast on a national bus tour with Protect Our Care to celebrate that achievement, and to share the news about all the changes to our health care system in the past few years under the Biden administration. […] Under the Inflation Reduction Act, people on Medicare already have their insulin copays capped at $35 per month. The pressure from this measure has already forced insulin makers to lower the price of insulin for many people not covered by Medicare, too. […] The Inflation Reduction Act is only one of many ways in which the Biden administration is moving America forward on health care.” [New Hampshire Bulletin, 8/17/23]

ABC News: Biden Takes Victory Lap on Inflation Reduction Act Amid 2024 ‘Bidenomics’ Push. “At a celebration in the White House East Room, Biden branded the $740 billion climate, health and tax bill as one of the “most significant laws” ever enacted. “Taking on the special interests and winning,” the president said. “Delivering on promises that have long been made to the American people to lower cost for families, especially health care costs; increase America’s energy security; restore fairness to a tax code; create good paying jobs here in America; and to address the potential threat of climate crisis.” [ABC News, 8/16/23]

CNN: Biden Knocks GOP for Opposing His Domestic Agenda as He Celebrates Anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act. “President Joe Biden celebrated the first anniversary of his administration’s signature climate and health care law on Wednesday – and knocked Republicans for opposing the measure during a lively event in the White House’s East Room. […] In his Wednesday remarks, Biden trumpeted provisions in the law that he pledged would cut carbon pollution in half by 2030, invest more than $50 billion to build up climate resilience and save Americans an average of $800 a year in health care premiums under the Affordable Care Act.” [CNN, 8/16/23]

Michigan Advance: Michigan Dem Leaders Tout Climate, Health Initiatives In The Inflation Reduction Act’s First Year. “The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022, which set out to support the economy by curbing prescription drugs costs and investing in clean energy and electric vehicles, turned one year old Wednesday and Democratic leaders in Michigan joined together over Zoom to give a year-in-review. […] Gilchrist noted the IRA put a $35 cap on the monthly cost of insulin for Medicare beneficiaries, saying he’s witnessed people in his own family struggle to afford the insulin they need. […] More and more Michiganders will reap the benefits of health care reducing costs outlined in the IRA, Dingell said, with an estimated 673,000 Michiganders to save an average of $360 on prescription drugs annually starting in 2025 when more caps and drug reducing policies go into effect under the IRA.” [Michigan Advance, 8/16/23]

NY1 Spectrum News: ‘We’re Investing In All Of America: Biden Marks Anniversary Of Signing Landmark Climate, Health Care And Tax Law. “President Joe Biden marked the anniversary of one of his signature pieces of legislation on Wednesday – the so-called Inflation Reduction Act – calling it ‘one of the biggest drivers of jobs and economic growth this country has ever seen.’ […] Among the bill’s provisions are a $35 per month cap on insulin for Medicare recipients, reforms to allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices for certain medications, increased tax enforcement and a 15% corporate minimum tax rate, as well as the largest-ever federal investment to fight climate change. It passed both the Democratic-controlled House and Senate last year without any Republican support.” [NY1 Spectrum News, 8/16/23]

SOCIAL MEDIA

President Joe Biden: “Under the Inflation Reduction Act, folks on Medicare—no matter how many prescriptions they have—pay no more than $2,000 a year for their medication. This is a game-changer for American families.” [X, 8/16/23]

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY): “Since the Inflation Reduction Act became law: We made it possible for the first time ever for Medicare to negotiate the price of prescription drugs to bring down costs for seniors.” [X, 8/16/23]

Senate Majority Whip Richard Durbin (D-IL): “One year ago today, @POTUS signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law. @SenateDems fought tooth and nail for this historic legislation and for everyday Americans—to reduce costs for families, make the tax code fairer, and make the biggest climate action investment in history.” [X, 8/16/23]

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY-8): “Insulin used to cost thousands of dollars per year for many older Americans. Dems passed the Inflation Reduction Act. Now it’s $35 per month.” [X, 8/16/23]

House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar (D-CA-33): “One year ago, @HouseDemocrats passed the Inflation Reduction Act to lower health care costs for families, which included:
💊 Lower prescription drug costs
⚕ Lower health care costs
💉 $35/month cap on insulin” [X, 8/16/23]

Assistant House Democratic Leader James E. Clyburn (D-SC-6): “Today marks one year since @POTUS signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law — historic legislation to lower kitchen table costs, reduce prescription drug prices, shrink the deficit, and tackle climate change. That’s Bidenomics at work.” [X, 8/16/23]

Representative Jerry Nadler (D-NY-12), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee: “One year ago today, @HouseDemocrats secured access to affordable health care for almost 15 million Americans. With the #InflationReductionAct, #NY12 residents are saving an average of $2,990 every year on their health insurance.” [X, 8/16/23]

Representative Nydia Velazquez (D-NY-7), Ranking Member of the Committee on Small Business: “One year ago, Democrats delivered the largest investment in clean energy in history. We empowered Medicare to negotiate drug prices and we secured lower health care costs. And we did it by making rich corporations finally start to pay their fair share. #InflationReductionAct” [X, 8/16/23]

Senator Jon Tester (D-MT): “A year ago today, we passed the Inflation Reduction Act to:
📉 Pay down the debt
💊 Slash prescription drug prices
🩺 Cap health care costs
🇺🇸 Invest in American energy
🌎 And protect our climate
ALL without raising taxes on Montanans, but by holding corporations accountable.” [X, 8/16/23]

Senator Mark Warner (D-VA): “One year ago, the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law! It focused on the issues that matter: cutting health care costs for seniors, protecting miners’ benefits, lowering emissions, and slashing the deficit. Proud to have gotten it done for Virginians.” [X, 8/16/23]

Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL): “One year after @POTUS and Congressional Democrats enacted the Inflation Reduction Act, all have benefited from:
—Lower Rx costs
—$35/month cap on Medicare insulin costs
—Boosts in manufacturing and clean energy
—A fairer tax code
—Investments in climate action
—JOBS, JOBS, JOBS” [X, 8/16/23]

Representative Judy Chu (D-CA-28): “The #InflationReductionAct has also:
🩺Lowered health care costs
💊Capped prescription costs for Medicare beneficiaries
💡Driven down energy costs
@HouseDemocrats and I will keep fighting to continue this progress.” [X, 8/16/23]

Representative Ted Lieu (D-CA-36): “Since the #InflationReductionAct was passed one year ago, it has:
✔️Lowered prescription drug costs
✔️Created jobs and boosted the economy
✔️Lowered energy costs for families
Learn more about how this law is impacting our community: https://democrats-budget.house.gov/legislation/InflationReductionAct” [X, 8/16/23]

Representative Susie Lee (D-NV-03): “One year ago today, I voted for the #InflationReductionAct to give working folks the tools & opportunities to succeed.
In NV & beyond, those investments are:
🏥 Driving down health care costs
☀️ Creating 1000s of clean energy jobs
🌄 Protecting our public lands & water supplies” [X, 8/16/23]

Representative Lucy McBath (D-GA-07): “💊 Lower prescription drug costs
🏥 Lower health care costs
⚡ Lower energy costs
One year ago, my colleagues and I delivered the #InflationReductionAct to lower costs for American families—including a $35 insulin cap that I championed. We’re working to continue that progress.” [X, 8/16/23]

ashoup In News, Roundup

ROUNDUP: Court Ruling on Affirmative Action Will Have Broad Ranging Effects That Will Harm Health Equity Efforts

On June 29, 2023 the Supreme Court ruled, in a 6-3 decision, that race-conscious admissions, using race as one of many factors that allow for admission into highly selective schools, was unlawful. According to experts this decision will have broad implications not just in higher education admissions but across the country in different industries, including health care. Experts, news coverage, and reactions from key officials and leading organizations have made clear this decision will harm efforts to address the growing racial and ethnic disparities in health care – most notably initiatives to diversify the health workforce, which are proven to reduce bias and improve health outcomes for people of color.

Statements

President of the United States Joe Biden. “[F]or forty-five years, the United States Supreme Court has recognized a college’s freedom to decide… how to build diverse student bodies and to meet their responsibility of opening doors of opportunity for every single American. Today, the Court once again walked away from decades of precedent and make — as the dissent has made clear. The Court has effectively ended affirmative action in college admissions. And I… strongly disagree with the Court’s decision. I’ve always believed that the promise of America is big enough for everyone to succeed and that every generation of Americans [has] benefitted by opening the doors of opportunity… wider to include those who have been left behind. I believe our colleges are stronger when they are racially diverse. We cannot let this decision be the last word. Today, I’m directing the Department of Education to analyze what practices help build a more inclusive and diverse student bodies and what practices hold that back, practices like legacy admissions and other systems that expand privilege instead of opportunity. Colleges and universities should continue their commitment to support, retain, and graduate diverse students and classes.” [6/29/23]

Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra. “The Supreme Court ruling today weakens efforts to make higher education more accessible to members of historically underrepresented groups. People of color have been excluded from attending medical school and joining medical organizations for generations. While progress has been made, there is still a significant deficit in the number of Black and Latino doctors and medical students. We need more health workers, especially those who look like and share the experiences of the people they serve. This builds trust between provider and patient, and helps to improve the overall quality of care. This ruling will make it even more difficult for the nation’s colleges and universities to help create future health experts and workers that reflect the diversity of our great nation. The health and wellbeing of Americans will suffer as a result.” [6/29/23]

President of the American Medical Association Jesse M. Ehrenfeld, M.D., M.P.H. “Today’s decision by the U.S. Supreme Court undermines decades of progress centered on the educational value of diversity, and will reverse gains made in the battle against health inequities. This ruling restricts medical schools from considering race and ethnicity among the multiple factors in admissions policies and will translate into a less diverse physician workforce. Diversity is vital to health care, and this court ruling deals a serious blow to our goal of increasing medical career opportunities for historically marginalized and minoritized people. While our country grows more diverse, historically marginalized communities have been left behind on nearly every health indicator. A physician workforce that reflects the diversity of the nation is key to eliminating racial inequities. There is convincing evidence that racially diverse care teams produce measurably positive health outcomes for patients in historically marginalized populations. The goal is not racially segregated care, but rather a health care workforce in which racial and ethnic representation is a more common aspect of care teams. Eliminating health inequity requires more commitment to, investment in and support for Black, Latinx and Native American and Indigenous communities, and LGBTQ+ people. Yet, today’s ruling undermines policy that was producing positive results and improving the health of our patients, as well as making all physicians better practitioners. This ruling is bad for health care, bad for medicine, and undermines the health of our nation.” [6/29/23]

CEO and Chief Legal Officer of the Association of American Medical Colleges David Skorten M.D. and Frank Trinity JD. “We are deeply disappointed with the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to dismantle its longstanding precedent in the 2003 case, Grutter v. Bollinger, which had recognized student body diversity as a compelling interest permitting the limited consideration of race in admissions. Today’s decision demonstrates a lack of understanding of the critical benefits of racial and ethnic diversity in educational settings and a failure to recognize the urgent need to address health inequities in our country. The AAMC, informed by decades of research, recognizes the undeniable benefits of diversity for improving the health of people everywhere. We remain committed to enhancing health professional education and practice by emphasizing critical thinking, innovation, effective communication with all patients, and increased access to patient care for an increasingly diverse population.” [6/29/23]

National Hispanic Medical Foundation. “The National Hispanic Medical Association (NHMA) condemns the Supreme Court of the United States decision based on the cases against Harvard College and the University of North Carolina striking down race-based admissions in all colleges and universities across the country. This ruling against affirmative action in higher education rolls back decades of precedent to the 1950’s era of Brown v. Board of Education. Our nation’s future depends on racial equity and diversity in higher education to achieve upward mobility for our families and greater prosperity among our multicultural communities that leads to a thriving economy. We must continue to work together to achieve this goal. We call on government and philanthropy to commit long-term financial investments to community based organizations to develop innovative strategies that will continue to prepare students for the application process that will support diversity in higher education.” [6/29/23]

President of the National Medical Association Garfield Clunie, MD. “The Court has yielded a devastating opinion ruling race-conscious admissions processes unconstitutional. This is a major blow to this nation, including to the health of all Americans, especially those in underserved communities. Diversity in medicine is crucial to the health of this nation. This country should be doing all in its power to be more inclusive in the halls of higher education, not less. Affirmative action policies were designed to address racial bias and inequity, major barriers to ensuring diversity in medicine. These obstacles negatively impact not only the medical profession, but most importantly, the patients that we serve. This ruling is a colossal step backwards that will reverberate for decades to come.” [7/3/23]

President and CEO of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Deborah Trautman Ph.D. “The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) joins with the larger higher education community in denouncing this decision, which threatens the creation of more diverse and inclusive learning environments,” said Dr. Deborah Trautman, AACN President and Chief Executive Officer. “AACN reaffirms our commitment to serving as a champion for diversity, equity, and inclusion, while recognizing the importance of a diverse nursing workforce to reducing health disparities, addressing social determinants of health, and improving patient outcomes. We stand with our schools of nursing and will work diligently to identify strategies, to ensure our student populations reflect the broad diversity of our society.” [6/29/23]

General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Molly Meegan. “Today’s Supreme Court decision is a direct blow to people of color across the United States, who are already at risk of poor health outcomes. We know that racial diversity in health care literally saves lives: research and experience have shown time and time again that disparities in health outcomes decrease when patients are treated by health care professionals who have learned and worked alongside colleagues of different racial and ethnic backgrounds. The best way to ensure diversity in the medical workforce is through holistic considerations of medical school candidates that take into account race, ethnicity, and the lived experiences that each candidate could bring to their career as a physician because of their background. Comprehensive consideration of each medical student candidate as an individual can only benefit the communities for which they will ultimately provide care. More diversity in health care means better-educated physicians; higher quality of care; and healthier people, families, and communities everywhere. Less diversity in health care can mean physicians who may be less equipped to connect with and treat the diverse patient populations they serve and patients with worse health outcomes, both of which cause entire communities to suffer.” [6/29/23]

President of the American College of Physicians Omar T. Atiq, MD, FACP. “The American College of Physicians (ACP) was disappointed to see the Supreme Court decision issued today that rules against the use of affirmative action as a part of a college or university’s comprehensive admissions process. ACP believes that a diverse, equitable, and inclusive physician workforce is crucial to promoting equity and understanding. Diversity in the health care workforce not only benefits underserved patients but improves care for all patients. Evidence has shown diverse populations in educational and medical training settings improves learning outcomes by increasing active thinking and intellectual engagement skills and increases understanding of and empathy for diverse cultures. A diverse physician workforce should include individuals of all races, including Indigenous, Black, Latinx, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and other persons affected by discrimination to better reflect the population for whom we care. Considering race as one of the many determining factors used when considering an individual’s admission to an education program can be an important way to combat the harm that systemic racism and discrimination has in the United States. Affirmative action is one means of helping to promote that diversity. Medical schools and other institutions of higher education should consider a person’s race and ethnicity, alongside other factors that are often considered like socioeconomic status and geographic location, as part of evaluating applicants to counter both past and current discrimination. ACP will continue to advocate for policies that can help to increase diversity and promote equity.” [6/29/23]

Executive Director of the American Public Health Association Georges C. Benjamin, MD. “Without affirmative action, we risk turning the clock back on years of progress that have led to improved outcomes and a more diverse public health and health care workforce. Affirmative action policies and programs have directly resulted in the diversification of the public health and health care workforce, with more practitioners of color working directly in communities that suffer some of the worst health disparities and outcomes. With a more diverse public health and health care workforce, we can address and redress years of systemic racism that has sustained poorer health outcomes for our communities of color. Countless studies confirm that diversity in the health care and public health workforce is critical to addressing health disparities, improving cultural competency, building trust and promoting equity. Public health professionals and physicians that bring different perspectives and experiences to their work and patients can better address socio-cultural factors that influence health and access to care. To not consider an applicant’s full background, especially as underrepresentation of certain minority groups in health professions remains an enduring problem, will ultimately lead to lower minority enrollment and worse overall national health.” [6/29/23]

A Coalition of 12 Civil Rights Groups Including the National Urban League and the NAACP. “The extreme decisions of the Supreme Court to overturn affirmative action in the college admissions process was incredibly disappointing. The conservative-majority court erased decades of momentous progress. The effects of this decision will further perpetuate the deep and structural racism that exists in this country. To claim that affirmative action violates the equal protection clause of the 14th amendment goes to show that there are members of the Supreme Court who are unfamiliar with the amendment’s history and intention. Our nation is stronger because of the unique experiences and talents of all people. Yesterday’s decision serves as a distressing reminder of the uphill battle we continue to face in dismantling systemic racism and the potential implications this decision can have on diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in the workplace. Despite this Supreme Court ruling, we remain resolute in our commitment to constructing equitable pathways to higher education and the opportunity that comes with it.” [6/29/23]

Joint Statement of the National Council of Asian Pacific Americans. “This decision has implications not only for undergraduate admissions but also for graduate-level admissions, including medical and nursing school. Our communities’ health does best when medical professionals are more likely to understand our experiences. Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders continue to be grossly underrepresented in the medical profession, and health equity is further compromised by this decision – particularly in the shadow of the impact of COVID-19 on NHPI communities, which had one of the highest per capita death rates in our nation. The Supreme Court has chosen to ignore the reality of persistent racial discrimination and inequality in our country, and has undermined the efforts of educators and advocates to create more equitable and diverse learning environments. Inclusive education and representation for our communities isn’t just about what’s on the curriculum—it matters who is in the classroom to begin with. For decades, affirmative action has been an essential tool to ensuring that students from all communities have access to higher education. This ruling is a step backwards.” [6/29/23]

Robert Wood Johnson Foundation in a Philanthropic Joint Statement. “The Supreme Court’s decision impedes colleges and universities from selecting their own student bodies and fully addressing systemic racial inequalities that persist. The ruling threatens to return this nation to a time when education and opportunity were reserved for a privileged class. It endangers sixty years of multiracial movements to challenge our nation to live up to the ideals enshrined in our founding documents. In the realm of health, research shows that racially and ethnically representative medical schools produce better-trained physicians and care teams that reflect the communities they serve. Universities and colleges and those organizations supporting them deserve the resources and support to continue their critical mission. Our nation’s future prosperity, vitality, and unity depend upon America becoming a true multiracial democracy—an aspiration that requires racial equity and diversity in higher education. Despite today’s ruling, our foundations will not waver in our commitment to those making the nation’s high ideals a reality for all communities and all people.” [6/29/23]

Headlines

NBC News: The Affirmative Action SCOTUS Ruling Will Have a Negative Impact on Health Equity Efforts. “The Supreme Court’s affirmative action ruling will have far-reaching consequences for Black and Latino students hoping to attend medical school and, in turn, only worsen the health disparities among people of color across the country, experts said. After the high court’s ruling Thursday struck down affirmative action programs at the University of North Carolina and Harvard, many fear that medical and nursing schools and other professional institutions will no longer be able to foster diversity by considering race in their admissions processes. The decision will result in fewer Black physicians and more racial bias in the medical field, said Dr. Uché Blackstock, a physician who is the founder of Advancing Health Equity. Justice Sonia Sotomayor highlighted the ruling’s potential impact on health care… Data and decades of research support Sotomayor’s opinion. Black and Latino people are both more likely to have chronic and life-threatening health conditions and to lack health insurance as a result of systemic racism, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. However, research has shown that those health outcomes for Black and Latino patients are better when they are treated by doctors who share their race or ethnicity.” [NBC News, 6/29/23]

Bloomberg (Opinion): Supreme Court Ruling on Affirmative Action Will Hurt Health Care. “The Supreme Court’s decision to end affirmative action at universities lands at a time when the US health-care system is already struggling to close egregious racial gaps in health outcomes. Diversifying the health-care workforce has been a critical part of that effort—and something that this ruling could make much harder. Patients, especially Black, Hispanic and Native American patients, now could be worse off. The health-care community has long acknowledged that diversifying the medical workforce is essential for addressing health-care inequities. Study after study shows that when a patient and physician have a shared characteristic, health outcomes improve. Black patients who receive care by Black doctors, for example, receive more time and attention, are more likely to adhere to treatment regimens like taking heart medicine, and are better able to manage complex diseases. Black newborns cared for by Black physicians have better survival rates. Black doctors are also more likely to believe their Black patients’ descriptions of pain and treat them accordingly. Doctors and educators also say that attending medical school with diverse student bodies made them better health-care providers. An analysis of public medical schools in states with affirmative action bans found a 4.8% drop in underrepresented students in the five years after those bans were implemented. Meanwhile, schools without bans had a modest increase in underrepresented students during that time. In ending affirmative action, the Court’s conservative majority just raised a new barrier to addressing inequities in health care. That will take a bad situation and make it even worse.” [Bloomberg (Opinion), 7/3/23]

Stat: Affirmative Action in Medical Schools Has Saved Lives, SCOTUS Ruling Ends That. “Despite decades of research and advocacy, along with millions of dollars committed to eliminate health disparities, generations of Black and brown patients continue to be mistreated and die from the effects of racism in the U.S. This has continued even amid the recent racial reckoning that sounded the alarm for racism as a public health issue. Time after time, studies have shown that class is not protective. Social status is not protective. And in the experience of our fellow physicians, even being a doctor cannot save you from racism in medicine. One solution to address these disparities has been to diversify the medical workforce — a solution that was severely handicapped Thursday when the Supreme Court ruled against affirmative action and race conscious admissions. The latest data on medical school diversity is dismal: 5.7% of all doctors in the U.S. are Black, while 7% are Hispanic, far lower than figures of 13.6% and 18.9% of the general population, respectively. Yet having Black and brown physicians is integral to questioning the status quo in medicine. Put simply, these doctors literally save lives. In fact, a recent study showed that for every 10% increase in the number of Black primary care physicians in a county, there was a 31-day higher life expectancy for Black individuals living there. The Supreme Court has now established a policy that will keep more individuals of color out of the pathway to medicine. By abolishing race-conscious admissions, we are simply quitting while we are behind.” [Stat, 6/30/23]

ashoup In News, Roundup

ROUNDUP: Pharma Company Merck Files Lawsuit to Protect Sky High Profits

Washington, D.C. – Drug company giant Merck sued the federal government yesterday to try and stop Medicare from negotiating lower prescription drug prices, a key part of the recently approved Inflation Reduction Act. Merck manufactures Januvia, an expensive type 2 diabetes drug that is likely to be eligible for negotiation, and has been on the market without competition for nearly 20 years. The authority to negotiate lower prices against Big Pharma, making prescription drugs more affordable for millions of seniors, is a historic win for American patients who pay up to four times more for the same drugs as patients in other wealthy countries. President Biden and Democrats in Congress delivered on their promise to lower costs for American families by passing the Inflation Reduction Act, and now seniors are depending on those savings while Big Pharma is desperately trying to protect their profits.

Members of Congress

Senator Patty Murray (D-WA): Big Pharma Continues Protecting Profits At The Expense of Patients’ Health. “This lawsuit could prevent millions of Americans on Medicare from benefiting from lower prescription drug prices. People are sick and tired of big pharma protecting their profits at the expense of patients’ health.” [Twitter, 6/6/23]

Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR): “No Surprise” Big Pharma Wants To Stop Medicare From Negotiating Lower Drug Prices. “It’s no surprise that Big Pharma wants to stop Medicare from negotiating lower drug prices on behalf of American seniors. I expect the Biden administration to vigorously defend Medicare’s bargaining power so seniors will see the lower drug prices they expect.” [Washington Post, 6/6/23]

Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT): Merck Wants To Keep U.S. Drug Prices High. “Merck wants to end Medicare’s ability to negotiate some drug prices. Here’s why. Its diabetes drug, Januvia, costs $6,600 a year in the US, but just $192 in France. Its cancer drug, Keytruda, costs $187,000 in the US, but just $87,000 in Germany.” [Twitter, 6/6/23]

Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH): Big Pharma Will Stop At Nothing To Raise Prices. “For years we fought Big Pharma to allow Medicare to negotiate lower drug prices. Last year, we won. But of course these corporations never give up. Big Pharma will stop at nothing to raise prices on Ohio seniors.” [Twitter, 6/6/23]

Rep. Frank Pallone Jr. (D-NJ): Merck’s “Outrageous” Lawsuit Seeks To Block Medicare Price Negotiation & Rip-Off The American People.“This lawsuit is outrageous. Empowering Medicare to negotiate fair prescription drug prices for seniors is not only plainly constitutional, but it’s also necessary if life-saving drugs are to continue to be available to all Americans. People just can’t afford their medications and increasingly go without them. The only rights that are being violated here are those of the American people who have been getting ripped off by Big Pharma companies like Merck for years. Thankfully, Big Pharma’s ability to extort seniors on drug prices is coming to an end. I’m incredibly proud of our work to stand up for consumers by passing drug price negotiation and I’m confident the law will withstand this ridiculous lawsuit by Merck.” [Energy and Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. Press Release, 6/6/23]

Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA): Merck’s Lawsuit Is “Profit Over Patients.” “Corporate greed threatens seniors’ access to affordable medications. Merck’s lawsuit against Medicare drug price negotiation is an egregious prioritization of profit over patients. We must safeguard the needs of our people, not Big Pharma’s bottom line.” [Twitter, 6/6/23]

Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA): Merck Wants To Force Patients To Pay More. “Merck claims that the fair price negotiation provisions Democrats passed last year will prevent development of new drugs, so they’re suing to block them & force patients to pay more. Yet big pharma spent $577B on stock buybacks & dividends from 2016-2020. Make it make sense.” [Twitter, 6/6/23]

Analysts

Washington Post: Several Legal Experts Are “Skeptical” Of Merck’s “Pretty Weak” Lawsuit. “Some legal analysts say to expect more lawsuits from drugmakers who allege the policy will thwart the development of innovative new therapies. And several said they’re skeptical [of] the lawsuit, which Merck vowed to take all the way to the Supreme Court if needed, will survive. But the move has strategic merit for the company, even though the case is ‘pretty weak,’ said Ameet Sarpatwari, an assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School.” [The Washington Post, 6/7/23]

Bloomberg (Opinion): “Merck’s Lawsuit Against Drug Price Controls Is Doomed.” “The pharmaceutical company says provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act violate the Constitution, but no judge is likely to agree. Merck’s lawsuit seeking to prevent enforcement of the drug pricing provisions adopted last year as part of the Inflation Reduction Act makes lots of good arguments against the legislation. But despite oodles of colorful language, the complaint doesn’t seem likely to win the company the injunction it’s hoping for.” [Bloomberg (Opinion), 6/7/23]

Truthout: Merck’s Lawsuit Comes Even As The Government Has “Already” Been Allowed To Negotiate Drug Prices “For Decades.” “Crucially, this is one of the only recent steps taken by lawmakers to lower prescription drugs at the federal level. Prescription drugs cost more in the U.S. than anywhere else in the world, due in large part to the pharmaceutical industry’s strong grip over lawmakers. This is a major factor in U.S. residents having worse health outcomes than residents of any other wealthy country. The government is already allowed to negotiate drug prices. For decades, the Department of Veterans Affairs has negotiated drug prices with manufacturers, allowing the agency to pay roughly half the amount for certain top drugs than Medicare does. Merck has garnered sharp criticism for the lawsuit, which critics said is motivated by a desire to profit off the health and survival of Americans. Indeed, records show that Merck’s revenue grew a whopping 22 percent in 2022.” [Truthout, 6/6/23]

The Pharma Letter: Merck’s Lawsuit Has “Mixed Prospects.” “The judicial response to industry lawsuits on drug pricing regulations have been mixed in the past. Previously, the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) brought a similar claim on First Amendment grounds against California, alleging that requirements for public notification and explanation of drug price increases violated free expression. However, the US District Judge sided with the state and dismissed the lawsuit. Should the judge in this case take a similar approach – which is not guaranteed, given that District Court judgements are not binding precedent – the First Amendment claim is likely to fail.” [The Pharma Letter, 6/7/23]

Physicians and Health Care Experts

Zachary Baron and Andrew Twinamatsiko, associate directors of the O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law at the Georgetown University Law Center: “That lawsuits are ultimately brought says nothing about any actual legal infirmity with the IRA or the Medicare Drug Negotiation program. In fact, as discussed briefly below, a number of the potential claims that the pharmaceutical industry and their allies may pursue largely track other unsuccessful industry challenges and would likely face substantial legal headwinds. If successful, such lawsuits would have broader implications beyond just Medicare or prescription drugs. Rather, the success of these challenges could result in new legal doctrines that would severely restrict federal regulatory authority in the health care arena.” [Health Affairs Forefront, 6/7/23]

Nicholas Bagley, Professor at the University of Michigan School of Law: “Merck doesn’t have a constitutional right to sell its drugs to the government at the price that it sets. That’d be nuts. […] both of these claims look very, very weak. […] That’s not an unconstitutional condition. That’s just bargaining.” [Twitter (Thread), 6/6/23]

Ameet Sarpatwari, Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School: “What Merck argues is ‘coercion’ is actually the establishment of a freer, more rational marketplace [that will address a crucial root cause of high drug prices].” [New York Times, 6/6/23]

Erik Gordon, Clinical Professor at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business: “[There are] better odds that Elizabeth Holmes wins Medtech Innovator of the Year than that Merck wins its lawsuit.” [STAT, 6/6/23]

Jonathan Reiner, Professor Of Medicine & Surgery at the George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Services: “Merck made $14.5 billion in profits last year.” [Twitter, 6/7/23]

Health Care Organizations and Advocates

Bill Sweeney, Senior Vice President at AARP: “Seniors and taxpayers are tired of being the piggy bank for the profits of big drug companies. Lawsuits like this are simply an attempt to keep high profits by gouging America’s seniors.” [CNBC, 6/6/23]

Tricia Neuman, Senior Vice President at the Kaiser Family Foundation: “It’s no surprise that drug companies have been gearing up to challenge #Medicare price negotiations in the courts, but a little surprising to see a lawsuit before CMS announces the names of the 10 drugs included on the list.” [Twitter, 6/6/23]

Robert Weissman, President of Public Citizen: “Merck is claiming the U.S. Constitution requires the U.S. government and people to be suckers. That’s not true. This lawsuit is a desperate attempt by the industry to beat back popular legislation that would curtail Big Pharma’s ability to price gouge Medicare and secure monopoly profits. Full stop. While Big Pharma’s litigation gambit plays out, it is critical that the federal government continue its preparation for price negotiations. Delay in the commencement of long-overdue negotiations will result in billions of dollars in excess costs for taxpayers and consumers” [Public Citizen Press Release, 6/6/23]

David Mitchell, Founder of Patients For Affordable Drugs Now: “Merck’s bogus lawsuit bemoans Medicare’s negotiation authority as ‘tantamount to extortion’ – but the truth is, Big Pharma companies like Merck are the ones who have been extorting patients for years, forcing them to pay unjustified prices or sacrifice their health. […] We believe that courts will see Merck’s lawsuit for what it is: a meritless attempt to maintain its ability to unilaterally set prices that are untethered to quality at the expense of patients. The truth is, implementation of Medicare negotiation is a desperately needed, long-awaited rebalancing of our drug price system that will help millions of patients obtain the medications they need at prices they can afford while ensuring continued innovation.” [Patients For Affordable Drugs Now Press Release, 6/6/23]

Margarida Jorge, Head of Lower Drug Prices Now: “This is nothing but a political stunt motivated by the same shameless greed that we’re used to seeing from drug corporations that have made decades of inflated profits at the expense of patients’ health and taxpayers’ hard-earned money. […] It’s time for big drug corporations like Merck to give up their monopoly control over prices and negotiate fair prices for the medicines we need.” [Lower Drug Prices Now Press Release, 6/6/23]

Max Richtman, President & CEO of the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare: “Merck’s decision to sue the federal government today demonstrates that there is no bottom to Big Pharma’s greed and the corporate culture of putting profits before people. With its lawsuit, Merck has made it clear that one of the nation’s most profitable drugmakers wants seniors to continue paying sky-high prices for their vital medications. (Merck made $14.5 billion in profits last year.) […] Merck’s constitutional arguments are spurious at best; the Veterans Administration has been successfully negotiating prices with Big Pharma for years. Drugmakers can still remain profitable while abiding by the Inflation Reduction Act, which was a long-awaited and landmark piece of legislation to protect seniors from industry price gouging.” [National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare Press Release, 6/6/23]

Richard Fiesta, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans: “Merck’s ridiculous lawsuit is the equivalent of a toddler throwing a temper tantrum. Americans pay the highest prices in the world for prescription drugs and too many seniors must choose between putting food on the table and paying for their medicine. That is because corporations like Merck have been allowed to charge taxpayers whatever they want for their drugs.” [The Alliance for Retired Americans Press Release, 6/6/23]

Roundup

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Week Six: Protect Our Care’s Care Force One Made Stops in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania

ROUNDUP: ‘Mike Johnson Vows to Kill Obamacare’: MAGA Republicans Finally Admit They Want to Repeal The ACA

ROUNDUP: Democratic Leaders Celebrate ACA Anniversary While Calling Out Trump’s Dangerous Repeal Threats

ROUND UP: “New Era in Medicare” Begins with Opening Offers in Negotiation to Lower Drug Prices

ROUND UP: Affordable Care Act Enrollment Soars With Record 21.3 Million Signing Up For Coverage

ROUNDUP: Democrats Celebrate the First Year of the Inflation Reduction Act

ROUNDUP: Court Ruling on Affirmative Action Will Have Broad Ranging Effects That Will Harm Health Equity Efforts

ROUNDUP: Pharma Company Merck Files Lawsuit to Protect Sky High Profits

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