American presidential politics: Like clockwork every four years, we evaluate candidates and focus on November. It can be an invigorating and inspiring time, but it can also be confusing. The issues are always complex and this election year is no exception.   

For employers, staying on top of candidates' positions is especially important. Many election issues play a role in the day-to-day running of a business.  

In November, we'll know which candidate will be our next president. But, in the interim, let's take a look at each of the major candidates' positions on key issues affecting the workplace. I encourage you to consider how these positions, if put into action, will affect your clients. Use your role as a financial professional to help clients weather potential changes by offering your expertise and recommendations.

The Affordable Care Act and the employer mandate

Hillary Clinton

• Expand the ACA, including access to all families regardless of immigrant status 

• Provide eligibility for a refundable tax credit for substantial out-of-pocket costs 

• Offer a public-option insurance plan 

• Permit individuals age 55+ to voluntarily buy into Medicare 

• Incentivize states to expand Medicaid

Donald Trump

• Repeal Obamacare and implement free market principles 

• Eliminate the individual mandate 

• Allow income tax deduction of health insurance premiums  

• Increase the use of health savings accounts paired with high-deductible health insurance

Changes to the ACA – or a repeal of the program all together – would have a cascading effect on benefits. Whether the impact is small or large, work with carriers you've built relationships with to provide needed adjustments to help clients handle the changes.