Since its inception and implementation in 2010, the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare, has been a contentious political issue in the U.S. Republicans and Democrats have debated the issue, and how it should be handled, in almost every major election. 2024 is no different.

As this political cycle continues to progress, we will continue to hear more and more about the directions candidates want to see health care go. Will we see a move towards the middle from both parties or will we see just the opposite?

In this interview, Nick Karls, Director of Compliance, Employee Benefits, at Holmes Murphy, shares his thoughts on what to expect in the coming months – and beyond.

What differences are we seeing this election cycle regarding each party's approach to the health care industry, and the impacts it might have on benefits?

In past election cycles, health care has been a top issue, discussed often by both parties which had very different ideas for the best solutions to health care. In 2024, we have heard very little from the Republican side when compared to past election cycles. Other issues seem to have taken the lead in the priorities of the Republican candidates. Health care, however, has long been a top campaign issue for the Democratic Party.