DiscoverPaging AmericaThe Shutdown and the ACA: Lives on the Line
The Shutdown and the ACA: Lives on the Line

The Shutdown and the ACA: Lives on the Line

Update: 2025-10-09
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In this episode of Paging America, Miles Baker and Dr. Rob Davidson tackle the escalating chaos in Washington and the real-world stakes for patients. From ICE crackdowns in Chicago to the Trump-led shutdown, they unpack how politics is bleeding into every corner of American healthcare.

They’re joined by Congressman Mike Levin (CA-49) for an inside look at the fight in Congress to protect healthcare access. Rep. Levin details how lapsing ACA tax credits could double premiums for millions, why Democrats are holding the line despite political pressure, and what’s really motivating Speaker Mike Johnson’s obstruction

The episode closes with rare good news: Colorado becomes the first state to cap prescription drug prices, a huge win for patients.

Background reading:

KFF: KFF Health Tracking Poll: Public Weighs Political Consequences of Health Policy Legislation

Government websites blaming Democrats for the government shutdown: HUD, FDA, CDC, DOJ, DEA & ATF

Lansing State Journal (via Yahoo! News): Federal websites are blaming Dems for shutdown. Is that legal?

NPR: FDA approves another generic abortion pill, prompting outrage from conservatives

The Washington Post: States fed up with high drug prices are cracking down

White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt responds to a question about asking ER patients about their immigration status

HuffPost: ‘Grossly Immoral’: Doctors Torch Karoline Leavitt’s ER Immigration Status Answer

Congressman Mike Levin’s government website is HERE

Rep. Levin explains his support of California’s Prop 50 HERE

Join the fight at committeetoprotect.org.

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Have thoughts, questions, or your own healthcare story? Email us at feedback@pagingamerica.org.



This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pagingamerica.org/subscribe
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The Shutdown and the ACA: Lives on the Line

The Shutdown and the ACA: Lives on the Line

Paging America, Miles Baker, and Rob Davidson