How about all that talk from Obamacare supporters where they say, “Once people find out what’s in the bill, they’ll love it!” Think so? From Gallup:
The vast majority of Americans, 81%, say they are aware of the 2010 Affordable Care Act’s (ACA’s) requirement that most Americans must carry health insurance or pay a fine. Americans who are currently uninsured — those most directly affected by this requirement — are much less likely to be aware of the provision, with 56% saying they know about it and 43% saying they are unaware.
The results are based on a June 20-24 Gallup poll, which asked a series of questions on the ACA, the comprehensive healthcare reform bill signed into law by President Obama in 2010. Many of the law’s key provisions will go into effect January 2014. Gallup previously reported that more Americans thought the law would make the healthcare situation worse than better for themselves and the nation.
The subgroups that are less likely to be aware of the health insurance requirement are also the subgroups that are least likely to be insured, including Hispanics, blacks, young adults, and those in lower-income households.
The federal government is ramping up its efforts to increase awareness among the uninsured to purchase health insurance. Those who lack insurance can find and purchase a plan for 2014 through a government website starting Oct. 1.
Once again, this is an opportunity for the GOP to speak directly to middle class voters who are already financially pinched. Maybe instead of just talking “repeal” they can speak specifically about the financial impact.