Press Release
Posted:
Washington – Today, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-05) joined Vice President Joe Biden and House Democrats in a press conference to highlight the impact and success of the Affordable Care Act. Seven years ago today, President Barack Obama signed the landmark healthcare bill into law, giving more than 20 million previously uninsured Americans access to the care they need and deserve.
“As Republicans prepare to dismantle our healthcare system, it’s important to take stock of everything the ACA has given American families,” said Thompson. “Millions have gained health coverage when before it was always out of reach. Millions more no longer have to fear being denied or dropped from their plans because of a pre-existing condition. Healthcare is not a luxury, it is a right. The success of the ACA and the widespread support I have seen in our district and across the nation proves that. I urge my colleagues on the other side of the aisle to listen to the folks back home who don’t want to—and shouldn’t have to—lose the coverage they’ve worked hard for.”
Tomorrow, the Republicans are poised to introduce their ACA repeal bill in the House. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office has estimated it will cost 14 million Americans their healthcare next year—and 24 million their coverage by 2026. After the so-called “manager’s amendment” was passed Monday, those numbers are projected to get worse.
As a senior member of the Health Subcommittee, Thompson previously tried to amend the Republican bill during a 17 hour markup to protect the markets California and other states have built. Unfortunately, Republicans did not entertain any bipartisan amendments.