Donald Trump and Republicans’s Health Care Crisis is Here Arrow

In two days, on January 1, 2026, millions of Americans will be hit with skyrocketing health care costs after Donald Trump and Republicans refused to extend the enhanced Affordable Care Act premium tax credits despite knowing the devastating consequences of inaction for Americans. In 2026, health care premiums are expected to surge for more than 20 million Americans by an average of 114%.

Rather than working with Democrats on a common-sense proposal to extend the tax credits, Republicans spent months fighting among themselves about how to slash health care and now working families are paying the price.

In response, DNC Chair Ken Martin released the following statement:

"Donald Trump and Republicans didn't just allow this health care crisis to happen - they caused it. Because they refused to extend the ACA tax credits, millions of Americans will be hit with the stark reality of devastating health care cost increases in two days - and it was entirely preventable. Working families should be starting the new year with some peace of mind, not being forced to choose between paying for food, housing, or health care. But Trump's priority is clear: lining the pockets of his wealthy donors with massive tax breaks. Despite promising to lower costs on 'Day One,' Trump and Republicans have done the opposite, jacking up costs and leaving working families to pay the price."

Instead of extending the tax credits, Trump and Republicans proposed an HSA junk insurance bill that wouldn't cover the massive premium hikes they're causing and disproportionately benefit higher-income households. Meanwhile, working families would face soaring out-of-pocket costs or lose coverage altogether.

Experts warn that "state economies would shrink by $40.7 billion in 2026, roughly 339,000 jobs would be lost, and state and local tax revenues would be reduced by $2.5 billion" if the ACA tax credits are not extended.