Democrats plan healthcare votes to goad Trump

Democrats are preparing healthcare votes to urge President Donald Trump to veto policies that voters have backed, according to recent reports. The party's initial focus will be on reversing Medicaid cuts and reinstating enhanced tax credits from the Affordable Care Act, both of which are affecting household budgets as healthcare premiums are on the rise.

However, lawmakers will have to figure out how to finance these initiatives, with California's voters highlighting the difficulty in raising taxes on wealthy individuals even in a blue state.

Progressive Democrats are also pushing for a House vote on a Medicare for All bill, despite House Speaker-elect Hakeem Jeffries preferring a more cautious approach. President Trump's support for most-favored-nation drug pricing legislation might create opportunities for Democrats to push for such a policy, although it remains to be seen how feasible this could be.

Sen. Bernie Sanders, who is expected to lead the Senate Health Committee, plans to broaden Medicare coverage to include dental, vision, and hearing services. Additionally, Democrats may attempt to slow down Trump's appointees in key roles within the FDA and Health and Human Services Department.

Moreover, there is anticipation of a series of confrontations as Democrats seek to interrogate health insurance and pharmaceutical executives during congressional hearings, and challenge Trump's nominees. For Democrats, the key opportunity lies in outlining their plans and policies should they gain control of the presidency.