Rising Health Care Concerns Top U.S. Agenda Ahead of 2026 Elections

Sat Dec 20 2025 09:05:24 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

An AP-NORC poll reveals health care as a growing priority for many Americans, surpassing other pressing issues. With significant increases in health care costs, voters are voicing urgent concerns as the 2026 midterm elections approach.

Health care costs have escalated to the forefront of American concerns, as revealed by a recent AP-NORC poll. Notably, 40% of respondents now prioritize health issues, significantly up from previous years. The economic strain caused by rising health care expenses has become a pressing issue for voters, particularly impacting those with family members experiencing health crises. The poll also highlights a decrease in confidence among Americans regarding the government’s ability to address these critical concerns, impacting electoral priorities as the midterm elections loom in 2026.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Julia Dvorak is increasingly concerned that her 83-year-old mother's emergency room visits for seizures are draining her retirement savings and might soon result in her needing to rely on Medicaid. At the same time, as a 56-year-old with a chronic knee condition dependent on state and federal assistance, Dvorak anticipates that her own health costs will rise next year.

This financial strain reflects a larger trend across the country, as health care becomes a significant priority for Americans, according to a recent AP-NORC poll reflecting public priorities heading into 2026.

The survey indicates that concern about health care has notably increased, outpacing other common issues amid rising costs and recent cuts in programs aimed at supporting Americans, such as Medicaid and Affordable Care Act subsidies. This has led to predictions of heightened health care debates shaping the upcoming midterm elections.

It affects me and my loved ones, and it's only getting worse for everyone else, Dvorak stated.

A notable 40% of U.S. adults prioritized health care in the recent survey, compared with only about 33% from the previous year. This uptick showcases the widespread alarm over rising expenses, particularly among adults aged 45-59 who face significant medical costs without being eligible for Medicare.

The poll also revealed a decline in confidence regarding the government's capacity to tackle pressing problems, with 66% of adults indicating they feel slightly or not at all confident about government progress on these issues.

Meanwhile, concerns about inflation and living costs continue to dominate discussions with over 20% of adults emphasizing housing expenses as a top government priority. Tensions surrounding immigration policy remain present but have shifted slightly, with rising concerns from Democrats contrasted by declining emphasis among Republicans.

A comprehensive look at this AP-NORC poll reveals stark similarities to the sentiments expressed during Trump’s first term, with health care, cost of living, and immigration emerging as critical themes going into the electoral season.