Implications of the Midterm Elections for Health Care Policy

The November 8 midterm elections have reshaped the contours of federal health policymaking for the remainder of President Biden’s current term. While Democrats outperformed expectations retaining control of the Senate—with the potential of adding a seat—and limiting their losses in the House, Republicans have gained a majority in the House. As a result, avenues for legislative policymaking, including the reconciliation process used to advance the American Rescue Plan Act and the Inflation Reduction Act in the 117th Congress, will be limited. In addition, the narrow margins in both chambers will make even basic legislative activity fraught. The Biden Administration will be compelled to turn primarily to regulatory action to further their health policy agenda, while also facing increased oversight from House Republicans. Panelists will discuss upcoming priorities for the lame-duck session of the 117th Congress, implications for the 118th Congress, and priorities for the Biden Administration.