From Georgia to Illinois, working-class Americans are being forced to pay more than double for their health care after the GOP’s big, ugly bill stripped away tax credits that over 22 million Americans relied on to fund tax breaks for billionaires and big corporations. Without these tax credits, monthly premiums have skyrocketed from hundreds to thousands of dollars, forcing many to skip doctor’s appointments, refrain from taking their medication, and drop coverage altogether. In Georgia, over half a million people have dropped their coverage amid soaring costs. In Maryland, thousands have downgraded to higher-risk, lower-coverage plans to stay insured. In Florida, James Diglio lost his health insurance after his premium jumped from $57 to $1,690 a month. Now, James has had to ration his medication and take out his Social Security benefits early to cover his expenses.
James’ story isn’t unique. It reflects what millions of Americans are facing right now: choosing between their health care and other basic needs, like housing and groceries. All the while, Trump and congressional Republicans are handing out tax breaks to billionaires and big corporations. This November, voters will not forget who made it harder to afford medication or see a doctor, and they will hold the Republican Party accountable for making their health care unaffordable.
Recent National Coverage
New York Times: Skyrocketing Health Insurance Forces Americans to Scramble for Care
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Forbes: Centene’s Obamacare Enrollment Drops By 2 Million After Congress Strips Subsidies
Center on Budget and Policy Priorities: Marketplace Enrollees Could Face Surprise Tax Increases Next Year Thanks to the Republican Megabill
Georgia
Georgia Sun: Half a Million Georgians Dropped Health Insurance as Costs Soared
Idaho
Idaho Capital Sun: After Health Insurance Subsidies End, 30,000 Idahoans Will Be Uninsured, Government Report Says
Illinois
WBEZ: Chicagoans Grapple With Higher Health Insurance Premiums
Maryland
Maryland Matters: Thousands of Marylanders Downgraded Health Plans on ACA Marketplace Amid Rising Premiums
New Jersey
NJ Spotlight News: About 14% Drop Discount Health Plans on Loss of Federal Subsidy
Vermont
Valley News: Vermont Sees Drop in Health Insurance Enrollment After Subsidy Cuts