The News
Progressive Democrats are trying a tricky feat as their party takes power: endorsing Medicare for All while quietly pushing for smaller steps toward it.
Their dilemma began with the party’s remarkable midterm success. Democrats are united in attributing their electoral triumph in part to voter backlash against GOP healthcare moves — and this year, even purple-district candidates won while backing Medicare for All.
But now, the left is split on how to make it happen. Without a filibuster or veto-proof majority in Congress next year, Democrats are calibrating their expectations for change based on what can potentially pass through the maneuver known as reconciliation, which requires only a simple majority.
Some progressives are calling for a unified drive to lower the Medicare eligibility age, add guaranteed coverage up to age 19, and add dental and vision coverage. That could offer a middle ground for party leaders who are looking to stave off fights over bills likely to be vetoed by President Donald Trump.
Embracing a big step toward pure Medicare for All could also hand a victory to progressives who have long pushed for legislative action — if they can settle for something less than the litmus test they set up.
“It’s the perfect way for us to get ready for the next trifecta if we pass those…
