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Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley and Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries marked the 16th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) by convening discussions with healthcare providers, advocates, faith leaders, and individuals affected by ACA cuts. Throughout the meeting, they voiced their criticisms against the Republican party for their actions, such as gutting essential programs like Medicaid and funneling money into warfare and what Pressley called “ICE kidnappings”. Both Pressley and Jeffries highlighted their commitment to extending ACA subsidies, protecting healthcare for millions, and prioritizing healthcare over warfare.
Affordable Care Act’s 16th Anniversary Convening Emphasizes Healthcare Over Warfare
On the 16th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) being signed into law, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley and Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries held a critical discussion with healthcare providers, faith leaders, and individuals affected by ACA cuts. The dialogue centered around the Republican party’s efforts to curtail healthcare while increasing funding for warfare and ICE activities. Watch the full press conference here (YouTube) and view photos from the event (Dropbox).
“We demand Republicans prioritize people over profit and support life-saving healthcare,” said Rep. Pressley. “It was a privilege to partner with healthcare providers, faith leaders, and those impacted in Massachusetts. We will continue fighting for the health and dignity of our neighbors.”
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries echoed these sentiments, criticizing policy choices that slice healthcare for millions of Americans. He declared, “House Democrats affirm that no one should lack access to high-quality healthcare in the richest country in the world. We will continue advocating for healthcare, not warfare, and resist harmful policy choices.”
Joining the discussion were prominent religious leaders and healthcare providers, including Rev Willie Bodrick, Rev Mariama White Hammond, Dr. Guy Fish, and Michael Curry. Also present were community leaders like John Barros, former Chief Equity Officer for Boston, and Carolyn Villers, Executive Director of Mass Senior Action, an elder impacted by ACA cuts.
Rep. Pressley has been a tireless advocate for essential health care coverage and the extension of ACA tax credits, as well as a leading voice in defending immigrant communities. She has also defended immigrant neighbors and criticized Trump’s endless war on Iran.
Over the past year, Rep. Pressley has applauded Democrats forcing House passage of legislation to extend ACA subsidies, criticized attacks on healthcare and abortion access, and opposed the Republican spending bill that could spike healthcare costs. Additionally, she held an emergency meeting during the government shutdown to highlight its harm and expressed solidarity with affected individuals.
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