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Georgia Democrats are still pledging to expand Medicaid. But in 2026, it’s more complicated

A first aid box with the Georgia Pathways logo is seen at a job fair in Atlanta. Democratic candidates for governor are largely unified in their promise to fully expand Medicaid, which has been a longstanding Democratic priority, but that could be complicated as new federal law policy is implemented. (AP file Photo/Sudhin Thanawala)
A first aid box with the Georgia Pathways logo is seen at a job fair in Atlanta. Democratic candidates for governor are largely unified in their promise to fully expand Medicaid, which has been a longstanding Democratic priority, but that could be complicated as new federal law policy is implemented. (AP file Photo/Sudhin Thanawala) A first aid box with the Georgia Pathways logo is seen at a job fair in Atlanta. Democratic candidates for governor are largely unified in their promise to fully expand Medicaid, which has been a longstanding Democratic priority, but that could be complicated as new federal law policy is implemented. (AP file Photo/Sudhin Thanawala)

By Alander Rocha / Georgia Recorder 6 min read

Health care affordability remains a top concern for Georgia voters as they navigate a crowded ballot this primary election season, but as statewide Democratic candidates rally behind Medicaid expansion, campaign promises could be complicated by federal legislation passed last year.

According to a KFF poll, 72% of Democrats, 63% of independents and 47% of Republicans said the cost of health care will have a major impact on which party’s candidate they vote for later this year.

And Georgia voters are talking about it. At an early voting location in Rockdale County, voter after voter pointed to the rising cost of living as their top concern, with some saying rising insurance costs and high copays are squeezing their pocketbooks. Others said they are delaying health care appointments and necessary medication so that they can pay household bills or afford food.

“I’m 70 years old, and I have prescriptions that I can’t afford every month,” said retired Rockdale County resident Carolyn Mosely, who said she’s had to forgo buying prescriptions meant to prevent blood clots in the past month despite having “a little side hustle on the side” selling jewelry.

More than a half million Georgians have also recently dropped their insurance coverage after enhanced pandemic-era subsidies expired at the end of last year, causing premiums to jump for federally subsidized Affordable Care Act plans.