Political Polarization In Congress On The Affordable Care Act

Polarization in both politicians is evident, especially when pertaining to controversial issues. This paper will explore the political polarization in Congress on the issue of health care, with a focus on the Affordable Care Act. The thesis of this paper is to highlight how polarized politics on health care leaves no place for moderates or bipartisanship.
Polarization in Congress often leads to the gridlock, which has been a constant pain for Americans. In terms of health care, the fundamental difference between the two parties is how active the federal government should in the US health care system. This stems into funding for abortions, narrowing the health gap between different socioeconomic classes and achieving a universal health care system. In a poll done by likely voters in the 2016 presidential election from both parties, 87% of Democrats felt that the federal government had a major role in making the health care system better. This is compared to only 28% of

The ACA, passed in President Obama’s first term, mandates that all Americans will need to purchase healthcare or pay a tax. In addition, the plan also provides subsidies for middle class families and contributes to the overhaul of the healthcare system (Amadeo, 2017). The ACA represents major intervention by the federal government in the health care system. Again, the fundamental differences between the parties were present in the voting over this legislation. When the bill was in the Senate, it passed with support of all 60 Senate Democrats and two Independents. Each of the 39 voting Senate Republicans rejected this bill. The House also presents the same pattern. Again, all the House Republicans (178) voted no, joined by 34 House Democrats. The other 219 House Democrats voted yes, carrying the bill (Civic Impulse, 2017). It was then signed into law by President Obama on March 23,