Single-Payer System Continues To Be Contentious Issue In California Governor Race
But Politico reports that the idea, which has become a favorite for parts of the Democratic base, may not be playing well in other 2018 races. Meanwhile, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) defends his "Medicare for all" plan in the face of media fact checks.
Los Angeles Times:
Gavin Newsom Criticized For Flip-Flopping On California's Most Pressing Issues
Part of the foundation of Newsom’s campaign for governor has been his strong support for establishing a single-payer healthcare system in California ... But former San Francisco County Supervisor Tom Ammiano, author of the ordinance that evolved into Healthy San Francisco, said Newsom “tried to undermine it as best he could” while it was being debated, in part because of concerns over cost to employers in the city. After Healthy San Francisco was approved, Newsom embraced it, Ammiano said. (Willon, 8/20)
Politico:
Why ‘Medicare For All’ Is Playing Poorly In Democratic Primaries
Most of the prominent Democrats eyeing 2020 presidential bids — including Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand of New York, Cory Booker of New Jersey and Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts — champion the idea of “Medicare for all,” suggesting it’s become almost a litmus test for the party’s base. But the notion of government-funded health care has proved a tough sell to Democratic voters in swing districts that will determine control of the House. (Demko, 8/21)
The Hill:
Sanders Hits 'Medicare For All' Fact Checks As 'Riddled With Errors'
Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) is hitting back at media fact checks of his "Medicare for all" plan, saying the articles are “riddled with errors.” In a series of tweets on Monday, Sanders criticized a fact check from CNN’s Jake Tapper. At issue is a conservative study that Sanders has been touting from the right-leaning Mercatus Center at George Mason University. Sanders has said the study showed that his plan would reduce total U.S. health spending by $2 trillion over 10 years. (Sullivan, 8/20)