Xavier Becerra Campaigns in Little Tokyo
In Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo, Democrat Xavier Becerra campaigns for the governorship of California. He faces Republican candidate Steve Hilton in the bid to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom, entering his race with significant credentials from his time in Washington, D.C.
Becerra’s Healthcare Legacy
As the former U.S. secretary of Health and Human Services, Becerra was key in the expansion of the Affordable Care Act. This effort resulted in more Americans than ever having health insurance. However, if Becerra wins in November, experts warn he may tackle a steep decrease in health insurance coverage.
Impacts of Federal Cuts
A May analysis by the University of California, Berkeley Labor Center points to a possible increase in uninsured Californians under 65. The number could almost double from 2.4 million to 4.6 million due to state and federal cuts to Medicaid and ACA marketplaces.
It’s triage,
said Jessica Altman, executive director of Covered California. The cuts could heavily impact hospital systems, insurers, and the economy.
Challenges for Becerra
California saw a significant reduction in uninsured rates due to ACA’s implementation. As California attorney general, Becerra defended many ACA provisions. As governor, Becerra plans to issue executive orders to keep those affected insured. Nonetheless, he faces the challenge of compensating for the annual loss of $30 billion in federal funding.
During a Politico policy forum, Becerra emphasized reducing waste in the healthcare industry, intending to direct savings into maintaining health coverage.
Hilton’s Proposals
Hilton appeals to voters by proposing tax breaks, arguing they immediately reduce costs. He campaigns against covering Californians without legal status, seeking to cut expenses and provide financial relief to taxpayers.
ACA’s Progress and Upcoming Challenges
Thanks to the ACA, the uninsured rate in the U.S. halved following its passage in 2010. Becerra’s efforts as health secretary under President Biden further increased coverage rates.
However, the ACA faces challenges under conservative critics who claim its policies inflated enrollment. Federal decisions under Trump’s administration have tightened enrollment, with Republicans passing legislation aimed at preserving Medicaid while cutting spending.
California’s Healthcare Dilemma
California confronts higher-than-expected costs, prompting the state to freeze enrollment for some immigrants and implement premiums for others. Federal funds make up a substantial portion of California’s healthcare budget.
Governor Newsom and Democratic lawmakers have delayed cuts until 2027, setting a challenge for the next governor.
Becerra, a native Californian with Mexican immigrant roots, has taken a stance against what’s known as the billionaire tax. Meanwhile, county governments seek funding to address incoming waves of uninsured patients in need of care.
As Miranda Dietz suggests, the potential enactment of cuts presents a significant challenge, forcing decisions on maintaining coverage amidst financial constraints.
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