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.
The failure to repeal and replace the ACA largely stemmed from the realization that the political cost of creating 20+ million newly uninsured constituents far outweighed the political benefit of keeping a promise to the base. Legislators, particularly those in swing districts or states, feared a backlash from people losing insurance, protection for pre-existing conditions, or Medicaid coverage, making the vote for repeal a net negative for re-election.
📈 Voter Analysis and National Policy Decisions
Legislative leaders (like the Speaker of the House or Senate Majority Leader) constantly analyze voters' views to strategically recommend, position, or even block national policies like changes to Medicare or Medicaid.
Issue Salience and Mobilization
Leaders use polling and analysis to gauge how salient an issue is to their voters.
Medicare and Medicaid are two of the most popular government programs. Any proposed cuts or structural changes are instantly high-salience issues for two powerful voting blocs:
Sample Answer
The efforts to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA) were heavily influenced by a cost-benefit analysis (CBA) conducted by legislators, where the "cost" was measured not in dollars, but in lost votes and political support, and the "benefit" was increased chances of re-election.
🗳️ Cost-Benefit Analysis and the ACA Repeal Effort
The primary goal of a legislator is to be re-elected. Therefore, when considering a major policy change like repealing the ACA, the political calculus overshadows the pure fiscal or social analysis.