Regardless of political affiliation, individuals often grow concerned when considering perceived competing interests of government and their impact on topics of interest to them. The realm of healthcare is no different. Some people feel that local, state, and federal policies and legislation can be either helped or hindered by interests other than the benefit to society.
Consider for example that the number one job of a legislator is to be reelected. Cost can be measured in votes as well as dollars. Thus, it is important to consider the legislator’s perspective on either promoting or not promoting a certain initiative in the political landscape.
Post an explanation for how you think the cost-benefit analysis in terms of legislators being reelected affected efforts to repeal/replace the ACA. Then, explain how analyses of the voters views may affect decisions by legislative leaders in recommending or positioning national policies (e.g., Congress' decisions impacting Medicare or Medicaid). Remember, the number one job of a legislator is to be re-elected. Please check your discussion grading rubric to ensure your responses meet the criteria.
Full Answer Section
Analyses of voter views can have a significant impact on decisions by legislative leaders in recommending or positioning national policies. Legislative leaders are constantly trying to understand what their voters want, so that they can make decisions that will help them win re-election.
For example, if polls show that voters are in favor of a particular policy, legislative leaders are more likely to support that policy. Conversely, if polls show that voters are opposed to a particular policy, legislative leaders are less likely to support that policy.
In the case of Medicare and Medicaid, these are two very popular programs, and most voters support them. As a result, legislative leaders are unlikely to support any major changes to these programs that would reduce benefits or increase costs for voters.
Here are some specific examples of how analyses of voter views may affect decisions by legislative leaders in recommending or positioning national policies:
- If polls show that voters are concerned about the rising cost of healthcare, legislative leaders are more likely to support policies that aim to reduce healthcare costs.
- If polls show that voters are worried about the quality of their healthcare, legislative leaders are more likely to support policies that improve the quality of care.
- If polls show that voters are concerned about access to healthcare, legislative leaders are more likely to support policies that expand access to care.
Overall, legislative leaders are very concerned with voter views, and they are likely to make decisions that they believe will be popular with voters.