Poll shows strong support for extending health care tax credits

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Drew Altman, President & Chief Executive Officer, KFF; Executive Publisher, KFF Health News | Official Website

Poll shows strong support for extending health care tax credits

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A recent poll conducted by KFF reveals that a significant majority of Americans, 78 percent, are in favor of extending the enhanced premium tax credits. These credits have been instrumental in making health care coverage affordable for 22 million people. The survey results come just weeks before the start of open enrollment, highlighting bipartisan support for the extension among Democrats and Republicans. Independents also show strong backing, with a four-to-one margin supporting the continuation of these credits.

The findings from KFF align with previous research by both Republican and Democratic pollsters, indicating widespread voter support across party lines for maintaining the tax credits. This issue is expected to influence voter decisions in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections.

Republican pollsters Tony Fabrizio and Bob Ward reported that 72 percent of voters support extending the tax credits. Their analysis suggests potential electoral consequences if Congress allows these credits to expire, predicting that Republicans could face losses in competitive districts by up to 15 points.

John McLaughlin, another Republican pollster, found that 77 percent of voters, including a majority of President Trump's supporters, favor candidates who advocate for preserving the tax credits. McLaughlin cautions that lawmakers perceived as undermining the marketplace could face accountability from voters.

Democratic firm Impact Research noted similar trends, with 72 percent of voters in battleground areas supporting the extension. Many respondents indicated they would vote against their congressional representatives if they opposed it.

For millions of Americans—ranging from working families to gig workers—the stakes are high. Without an extension, new estimates suggest premium costs could more than double next year if Congress does not act to maintain these tax credits.

Further details on health care tax credits can be found here and here.

Information from this article can be found here.

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