Paul Starr
Princeton University
April 20, 6pm, University Center, Room L104 (63 Fifth Ave)
The Republican effort to “repeal and replace” the Affordable Care Act and to eliminate Medicaid’s status as an entitlement is not the first time conservatives have sought to stop, undo, or redirect reforms that have expanded health insurance and health care. Over the past century, conservative and industry-sponsored counter-reforms have fundamentally altered health-care institutions and policy. In response, Democrats and progressive groups have adjusted their own reform strategies, taking into account new institutional and political realities. Although the outcome of the current struggle is still uncertain, it is already possible to look ahead to the next phase of health politics as Democrats attempt to seize the initiative again.
