According to a recent poll conducted by the health policy research organization KFF, unexpected healthcare expenses and surprise medical bills rank as prominent worries for voters as they approach the 2024 election, exacerbating their pessimistic perceptions of the economy.
A significant majority of voters, at least 80%, emphasized the critical importance of 2024 presidential candidates addressing issues surrounding inflation and the accessibility of healthcare.
Furthermore, respondents indicated a greater concern about their ability to cover unforeseen medical bills compared to routine expenditures such as gas, utilities, food, and housing expenses.
Bipartisan Concerns on Healthcare Costs
A prevailing apprehension regarding unforeseen medical expenses and the overall expense of healthcare services was voiced by majorities within both the Democratic and Republican parties, as well as independents.
According to the survey, at least 70% of Democrats and Republicans indicated being either “very” or “somewhat worried.”
In recent electoral contests, healthcare has consistently emerged as a favorable topic for Democrats.
President Biden’s reelection campaign aims to emphasize both current and prospective measures he is implementing to reduce expenses for the American populace.
The administration is prioritizing financial concerns to aid families in managing their budgets, while also linking healthcare strategies to Biden’s accomplishments in bolstering the economy.
Republicans Favor Trump on Healthcare Costs
Biden’s campaign has been promoting notable achievements in making medications more affordable and reducing healthcare expenses, such as limiting insulin expenses within Medicare and enabling Medicare to engage in price negotiations for drugs.
However, survey findings indicate that Biden still has progress to make in differentiating his healthcare approach from that of former President Trump.
Individuals who express challenges in meeting their monthly financial obligations tend to hold a more pessimistic outlook toward the national economy and exhibit heightened concerns regarding the affordability of healthcare and routine expenditures.
Moreover, they demonstrate a stronger inclination towards presidential candidates addressing economic matters, particularly healthcare expenses and the trajectory of Medicaid, in comparison to voters who experience minimal difficulty in meeting their financial obligations.
The survey results revealed that neither Biden nor Trump possesses a distinct advantage concerning healthcare expenses.
However, Republicans rated Trump more favorably in this regard compared to how Democrats rated Biden.