Health care costs and policy take center stage in 2026 midterms

Voters across the United States headed to the polls on Nov. 3, 2026, with health care affordability emerging as a primary economic concern alongside gasoline prices. The midterm elections serve as a critical test for the current administration's health agenda, including the "Make America Healthy Again" initiative and the future of federal health policy.

Data from KFF indicates that 60% of registered voters are concerned about their ability to afford health care. This anxiety follows a significant change in insurance costs; the average monthly benchmark premium for Affordable Care Act coverage increased to $625 in 2026, up from $497 in 2025, following the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits at the end of last year.

The "Make America Healthy Again" initiative remains a focal point of political debate. While the White House reports that approximately 35% of the American food industry has agreed to eliminate artificial dyes, critics and various advocates have released scorecards that challenge the administration's progress in fulfilling its stated promises.

The election results will define the oversight priorities and legislative agenda for the final two years of the Trump administration. Republicans entered the contest holding narrow majorities of 218–214 in the House and 53–47 in the Senate, with the outcome of key races in states like Kansas and Maine expected to shape the balance of power.

Lawmakers are expected to address these health policy issues during the upcoming lame-duck session of Congress. To further examine how voters weighed these concerns, KFF has scheduled a post-election discussion and podcast taping for Nov. 5, 2026.