Barrett and James Vote Against Affordable Healthcare…Again

Tonight, Congressmen Tom Barrett and John James voted against legislation that would have brought back the ACA premium tax credits for three years. Without its extension, more than 70,000 people across Michigan's 7th and 10th Congressional Districts face premium increases of up to 114% or more. This vote comes after both congressmen already voted for the Republican Tax Law that cut billions from Medicaid over the next ten years. Today is a serious one-two punch that continues the Republican agenda to make healthcare unaffordable for working families while prioritizing tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy.

"Congressman James had an opportunity to show whether he represents his constituents or the special interests ruining this country," said MI-10 resident Alex Bronson. "This vote wasn’t complicated—bring back the ACA tax credits so working families can afford to see a doctor. Right now, families across our district are rationing medications, postponing necessary care, and praying nothing serious happens because they can't afford the premiums. For people battling cancer, managing diabetes, or living with heart conditions, this delay is dangerous. We needed Congressman James to vote yes and he failed, again."

The Republican Tax Law that both Barrett and James supported cut billions from Medicaid and nutritional programs to pay for tax cuts that primarily benefit billionaires and large corporations. Now, with tens of thousands of their constituents unable to afford healthcare premiums, they voted against their relief. It would be insulting, if it wasn’t so tragic. 

"Too many families in our district have lost hope that Congressman Barrett will stand up for them," said MI-07 resident Diane Holland. "The vote to restore the ACA tax credits and make healthcare affordable, or leave thousands of his constituents behind should not have been one that weighed heavily on his conscience. We know people that are scrambling right now because they can't afford both the premiums and the prescriptions. People with disabilities, chronic illnesses, and serious health conditions are being forced to gamble with their lives, this was a fight for survival. Congressman Barrett failed, and people won’t let him forget it."

Michigan Families for Fair Care will continue to support bringing back the ACA premium tax credits by holding  events, and community conversations with local electeds so that families can afford health care and the basic requirements to live successful lives. We call on our representatives in Congress to stop prioritizing the wants of the ultra-wealthy over the needs of the working class.