Capitol News

In a recent letter to the editor published in the Detroit News, Michigan Democratic Party Chair Curtis Hertel criticized the state’s Republican congressional delegation for their handling of ongoing health care issues and the federal government shutdown.

Hertel pointed out that Republicans currently hold control over the White House, Senate, and House of Representatives. Despite this, he said they have allowed a government shutdown to occur rather than addressing what he described as a “looming health care crisis.” According to Hertel, “Reps. Tom Barrett, Jack Bergman, Bill Huizenga, Lisa McClain, John Moolenaar and Tim Walberg blame everyone but themselves while refusing to show up to work for more than a month. Their inaction makes it more likely that our health care costs will skyrocket.”

The letter highlights concerns about the potential expiration of Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits. Hertel stated that if these credits are not extended before open enrollment begins on November 1st, premiums could double for nearly half a million people in Michigan. He also noted that Medicaid cuts from previous GOP legislation could result in hundreds of thousands losing coverage.

“Michigan Democrats have been clear: we want to extend these tax credits and fight for families who can’t afford to see their premiums double,” Hertel wrote.

He further accused Michigan Republicans and candidates like Mike Rogers and John James of supporting legislation that would cut $1 trillion from Medicaid while benefiting wealthier individuals. Hertel also criticized support for tariffs implemented during Donald Trump’s presidency, arguing they contribute to rising costs.

Addressing claims made by some Republicans regarding Medicaid access for undocumented immigrants, Hertel said: “Now they blame Democrats for trying to clean up their mess and falsely claim undocumented immigrants are receiving Medicaid. Michigan Republicans should come back from vacation and pass a bill that prevents skyrocketing costs and ends your government shutdown.”

Hertel concluded his letter with: “If they can’t, they should step aside and put some work requirements on their taxpayer-funded salary while they’re at it.”