ACA Approval Hits New High Amid Tax Credit Expiry Concerns

Recent polling data indicates that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has reached its highest approval levels since 2012, signaling sustained public support for the healthcare law. According to a Gallup poll conducted in early November, 57% of voters approve of the ACA, surpassing previous years and maintaining over 50% approval since 2019. This trend highlights entrenched bipartisan recognition of the ACA's role in the U.S. healthcare system. In comparison, more expansive healthcare reforms like Medicare for All also show growing support. A Data for Progress poll indicates 63% of Americans favor Medicare for All despite acknowledging it would replace private insurance with higher taxes. Notably, nearly half of Republican respondents also expressed support for Medicare for All. These attitudes emerge as ACA tax credits, which reduce marketplace premiums for enrollees, are set to expire imminently, threatening to increase premiums substantially and raise out-of-pocket costs by an estimated $23 billion next year. Legislative efforts to extend these tax credits have stalled, partly due to political opposition. Additionally, policy adjustments made under the previous administration allowed for higher premium increases, exacerbating affordability challenges. A KFF survey reveals that over half of marketplace participants may forgo insurance if costs rise further. These developments underscore ongoing debates over healthcare affordability, market stability, and policymaking, with implications for insurance providers, regulators, and consumers alike.