WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) — The Biden administration says a record number of people have gotten health insurance under the Affordable Care Act, but the future of the program is in question. President-elect Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened changes, and the Republican-majority Congress is positioned to aid him make it.
This week, the Biden administration announced that 24 million Americans have enrolled in the ACA. More Americans overall now have health insurance than ever before, according to Health Secretary Xavier Becerra.
“In fact, today we are breaking records in the number of Americans who are insured,” Becerra said.
The White House attributes the enhance in enrollment largely to improved tax credits that lower the cost of monthly premiums and expand the pool of people eligible for coverage.
“The Affordable Care Act health insurance plans are the best deal in town,” Becerra said. “High-quality health insurance coverage for a full month, about $10 per month in premiums, in some cases less.”
However, what happens next for the ACA is uncertain. President-elect Trump tried to eliminate the program in his first term, and with his second term just days away, Democrats are worried.
Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) says they are preparing for a fight.
“We expect the new Trump administration to launch an equally vigorous attack on the Affordable Care Act,” Kaine said.
While the Trump administration has not presented a concrete plan to replace the ACA, his party has expressed criticism and a desire for reform.
Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) says he’s willing to consider changes.
“I think the promises of the Affordable Care Act have been proven false,” Schmitt said. “Health care is much more expensive than it was when the ACA went into effect. That’s why I’m always open to new ideas.”
Additionally, the expanded tax credits will expire at the end of the year unless the Republican-controlled Congress extends them.
“We have the lowest rates of uninsured Americans that we have seen in the history of the country. I don’t think we want to go backwards,” Becerra said.
Democratic lawmakers say they will work to keep the Affordable Care Act intact and expand expanded tax credits.
“I’m going to do everything I can to make sure we maintain it and improve it,” Kaine said.
enrollment for the ACA is open until January 15th.
