KFF Research Shows Health Care Costs Major Concern for Voters

KFF has released new research highlighting that health care costs remain a primary concern for voters as midterm elections near. Approximately 60% of adults express significant worry over affording health care, which includes the cost of insurance and necessary medications. This concern surpasses anxieties related to other household expenses, although recent fluctuations in gas prices momentarily competed with health care costs in raising public concern.

As election discourse heats up, half of the voters prioritize hearing candidates discuss health care costs, and similar percentages are interested in discussions on Medicare's future. Fraud in government health programs and the future of Medicaid also garner considerable attention. Health policies, including the Affordable Care Act and various food safety regulations, are important for a significant number of voters, who desire clarity from electoral candidates on these issues.

In partisan terms, Democratic voters largely focus on health care costs and the future of Medicare and Medicaid. Conversely, fraud stands out as a critical issue for Republican voters, a concern amplified by recent administrative efforts to address fraud within Medicare and Medicaid. This drive against fraud includes initiatives from the Trump administration, such as the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud led by Vice President J.D. Vance, which resulted in numerous legal actions.

There is bipartisan consensus that fraud exists within various federal programs; however, views on the extent vary sharply along party lines. The consensus persists that health care providers are more likely than individual patients to engage in fraudulent activities in Medicare and Medicaid systems. While most voters agree that reducing fraud could lower federal spending, they are less confident it would decrease personal health care costs.

Administrative measures to combat fraud, such as delaying federal funds to certain states, have been contentious, with many voters fearing these actions might negatively impact health care access rather than substantially reducing fraud. The poll also reflects that political motivations are perceived behind these administrative decisions, with Republicans generally more supportive of fraud reduction measures compared to Democrats who view them as politically driven.

KFF conducted this survey from June 25 to June 30, 2026, engaging over 1,300 adults through various methodologies, ensuring a representative sample of the U.S. population. The survey provides insights into public opinion and highlights voters' expectations from policymakers in relation to health care and government financial integrity.