Health care costs have emerged as the leading source of financial anxiety for households across the United States, according to a recent survey conducted by KFF, a nonpartisan health policy research group. With the midterm elections approaching, this issue could significantly influence voter sentiment, particularly among those concerned about affordability.
The survey, conducted between January 13 and January 20 with responses from 1,426 U.S. adults, highlighted that 66% of respondents expressed worry about managing health care expenses—more than concerns related to utilities, food, housing, and transportation. Of those, 32% identified as “very worried,” while 34% classified themselves as “somewhat worried.”
Nick Fabrizio, a health policy expert from Cornell University, indicated that this level of concern might position health care as a primary issue at the ballot box in November. The timing of the survey coincided with the expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies for health insurance through the Affordable Care Act. These subsidies had aided over 22 million individuals, with estimates suggesting that premiums for these enrollees could more than double in 2026—rising to an average of $1,904 per month from $888.
Despite Democratic efforts to extend these subsidies, resistance from a majority of congressional Republicans has stalled progress. Historically, health care ranked as a secondary election issue in KFF’s assessments, but current sentiment suggests a shift. Notably, a significant portion of respondents reported an increase in their health costs over the past year, with more than 20% indicating that these expenses have risen faster than those for other necessities.
The concern over health care affordability transcends party lines, with 57% of Republicans, 68% of independents, and 71% of Democrats sharing similar anxieties. This bipartisan concern emphasizes the potential for health care issues to dominate the upcoming elections.
As Republicans currently maintain control of the House, Senate, and the White House, their narrow majority in the House brings additional pressure. A substantial 43% of voters indicated that health care costs would heavily influence their choice of candidates in the midterms.
Moreover, Democrats appear to be gaining the upper hand on health care issues. According to the KFF survey, they outperform Republicans in voter trust related to Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act, Medicare, and general health care costs. However, the sentiment regarding who can best manage prescription drug costs remains divided, highlighting an area of competition between the parties.
Independents, a crucial voting demographic, display a tendency to favor Democrats on most health care concerns, yet many remain skeptical, with significant portions expressing distrust in both parties. This uncertainty suggests that the health care issue could serve as a pivotal point among independent voters in the upcoming elections.
