WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the government shutdown entered its third week and the Senate remains in session, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) convened virtually with Wisconsinites across the state to show what’s at stake as Republicans refuse to come to the table and extend the Affordable Care Act (ACA) enhanced premium tax credits that save 270,000 Wisconsinites on average $585 per month.
“This week, I met with folks across Wisconsin who are bracing for their premiums to skyrocket come January, and for some – that price tag will be so high it’ll force them off their health care entirely,” said Senator Baldwin. “Republicans passed tax giveaways for billionaires and corporations, but are refusing to come to the table to lower costs for families across Wisconsin. It’s high time they join me and get this done, before it’s too late.”
Baldwin with La Crosse area constituents
On Tuesday, Senator Baldwin hosted a press conference with La Crosse area constituents and public health leaders who rely on the ACA marketplace. During the press conference, one constituent shared that without the ACA premium tax credits, she could go without insurance and possibly bankrupt herself if something catastrophic occurs.
Baldwin with Eau Claire area constituents
On Wednesday, Senator Baldwin convened with Eau Claire area farmers and small business owners and employees who outlined exactly what is at stake if these tax breaks expire. Phil, a farmer in Pierce County, shared that come January, his health care could jump hundreds of dollars more per month – a cost he simply cannot afford.
Baldwin with Wisconsin farmers
On Thursday, Senator Baldwin joined Wisconsin farmers to hear how the expiration of the ACA premium tax credits would hurt them, their families, their workers, and their industry. The looming expiration comes as farmers are already navigating uncertainty due to Trump’s trade war. Later that day, Senator Baldwin met with constituents from Kenosha and Racine who shared their concerns about rising health care costs and the impact those increases could have on their families and the broader community.
Baldwin with Milwaukee area constituents
On Friday, Senator Baldwin continued her call for Republicans to come to the table and extend these tax breaks with Milwaukee area constituents, who shared that these tax breaks are the difference between life and death for them and their family members.
Senator Baldwin has voted seven times to reopen the government, reverse Republicans’ cuts to Medicaid, and extend the Affordable Care Act enhanced premium tax credits. Senator Baldwin and Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) lead legislation to make these tax breaks permanent.
The press conference with La Crosse area constituents can be found here.
The press conference with Eau Claire area constituents can be found here.
The press conference with Wisconsin farmers can be found here.
The press conference with Milwaukee area constituents can be found here.
An online version of this release is available here.
