FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jan. 13, 2026
Contact: Jack Cardinal, jcardinal@communitycatalyst.org

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The latest enrollment data showing ACA coverage down more than 1.4 million people compared to mid-January enrollment numbers from 2025 confirms what families and enrollment assisters have been signaling for months: we are in a health care affordability crisis. People are being priced out of coverage, delaying decisions, or walking away altogether because the financial help they relied on has been cut. 

With the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits on Dec. 31, 2025, and no comparable support in place, many are now facing 2026 monthly premiums they simply cannot afford. After years of price increases and historic federal cuts to Medicaid and other affordability programs and protections, people are not just worried — they’re angry. Losing premium tax credit assistance has left millions with no real options and no safety net. 

“These numbers confirm what people across the country are already feeling: we are in a health care affordability crisis,” said Michelle Sternthal, Interim Senior Director of Policy & Strategy at Community Catalyst. “When Congress failed to extend the enhanced premium tax credits, premiums spiked overnight — from $921 to $1,998, or $121 to $373. Families are facing impossible choices. 

“These outcomes aren’t random. They are the direct result of policy decisions that have weakened our health care system over time. Coverage works. Stability matters. Health care is not a luxury — it is shared infrastructure. When people are healthy, our communities and our economy are stronger. Congress created this crisis, and Congress has the power — and the responsibility — to act now.” 

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About Community Catalyst:

Community Catalyst is a leading non-profit national health advocacy organization dedicated to advancing a movement for racial equity and health justice. We partner with local, state and national advocates to leverage and build power so all people can influence decisions that affect their health. Health systems will not be accountable to people without a fully engaged and organized community voice. That’s why we work every day to ensure people’s interests are represented wherever important decisions about health and health care are made: in communities, state houses and on Capitol Hill. For more information, visit www.communitycatalyst.org.