Health Coverage in Jeopardy: What Trump's Win Means for Insurance Subsidies

Millions of Americans could soon find themselves without crucial health insurance subsidies. These financial aids, set to expire at the end of 2025, were boosted by the 2021 American Rescue Plan. The plan made more people eligible for assistance, including many middle-class individuals. With Republicans winning the Senate and Donald Trump as President-elect, the future of these subsidies is uncertain. Experts like Chris Meekins from Raymond James predict that the odds of extension are low, even if Democrats control the House.In 2024, over 20 million people relied on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) for health insurance. Since the 2021 subsidies started, enrollment in ACA plans with reduced payments doubled, particularly in Southern states. The Inflation Reduction Act extended these subsidies through 2025, benefiting 15. 5 million people in 32 states. However, if not extended, nearly 4 million people could lose their coverage in 2026 due to unaffordability. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that enrollment will continue falling, reaching as low as 15. 4 million by 2030. Republicans have hinted at major changes to the ACA. Lawrence Gostin from Georgetown University expects significant cuts to ACA outreach and Medicaid funding if Republicans gain full control. Additionally, legal challenges to the ACA's preventive services mandate are ongoing. Cynthia Cox from KFF warns that we might see a repeat of 2017, when the individual mandate's tax penalty was eliminated.