In a recent town hall meeting, Congressman Daniel Rivers (R-Idaho) faced intense backlash from constituents regarding his assertion that “nobody dies” due to a lack of healthcare. This statement came just hours after the House narrowly passed a controversial healthcare bill that critics argue will have dire consequences for many Americans.
During the meeting at Lewis-Clark State College, one attendee confronted Rivers, stating, “You are mandating people on Medicaid to face death. Your actions will lead to real consequences.” Rivers responded defensively, claiming, “No one wants anyone to die. That statement is utterly false. Nobody dies because they lack access to healthcare.”
This assertion was met with disbelief and jeers from the audience, as it is well established that inadequate access to medical care can lead to preventable deaths. A 2009 study from Harvard estimated that prior to the Affordable Care Act, approximately 45,000 individuals died annually due to lack of healthcare access.
If the current bill becomes law, it is projected that around 24 million people could lose their health insurance coverage. In Rivers’ own district, data from the Center for American Progress indicates that nearly 67,000 residents would be affected.
While it’s commendable that Rivers attended the town hall following his vote on the bill—which aims to limit Medicaid and allows states to opt-out of protections for preexisting conditions—it’s clear that many constituents are understandably outraged. With the stakes this high, it’s no wonder Rivers is struggling to find a rationale for his actions.
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In summary, Congressman Rivers’ claim that lack of healthcare does not result in deaths starkly contrasts with research and data showing the contrary. The potential loss of coverage for millions raises serious concerns about the effects of proposed healthcare legislation.