SUMMARY: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. prioritizes human health and environmental issues, advocating for significant changes in healthcare, particularly regarding food and medicine. His potential involvement in healthcare roles raises concerns among public health professionals, especially since vaccination is widely regarded as a cornerstone of public health advancements. The Trump campaign has hinted at skepticism towards vaccines, aligning with Kennedy’s history of anti-vaccine activism. This alliance could challenge established health protocols, as campaign officials voice doubts about vaccines, reflecting a shift in public discourse around health-related topics.

With the 2024 election campaign in its final days, House Speaker Mike Johnson this week floated “massive” health care reform if former President Donald Trump wins — changes that are also dependent, of course, on whether Republicans control Congress next year.

Meanwhile, new reporting uncovers more maternal deaths under state abortion bans, plus at least one case in which a woman was jailed after a miscarriage. Plus, other investigations are shining a light on a reality of American health care, regardless of who wins on Tuesday: the consequences of health industry profiteering.

This week’s panelists for KFF Health News’ ‘What the Health?’ are Emmarie Huetteman of KFF Health News, Lauren Weber of The Washington Post, Shefali Luthra of The 19th, and Jessie Hellmann of CQ Roll Call.

#donaldtrump #rfkjr #elections2024

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SUMMARY: California voters will decide on a $10 billion climate bond, known as Prop 4, aimed at improving water access and protecting communities from wildfires, extreme heat, and floods. Supporters emphasize its potential to enhance drinking water quality, with $610 million allocated for this purpose, addressing the needs of 720,000 residents served by failing systems. However, opponents caution against accruing state debt to fund these projects with interest. Voters must choose between targeting climate change or postponing critical repairs on the state’s credit card.

California voters will decide in November whether to approve a $10 billion climate bond that supporters say is needed to jump-start water system repairs for residents without safe drinking water. Opponents say those repairs should be prioritized in the state budget, not put on a credit card.

#california #climatechange #elections2024

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SUMMARY: Conservative groups aim to roll back Montana’s Medicaid expansion, which covers approximately 78,800 low-income individuals, marking a potential first elimination under the Affordable Care Act since its inception. As the program is set to expire next year, critics argue it’s costly and bloated, while supportive studies show it enhances access to care. The debate centers around differing viewpoints on the program’s impact on vulnerable populations. Montana, unique among states, may face this decision next year, with significant implications on health care access and budget priorities. Supporters emphasize that expansion has notably reduced the uninsured rate in the state.

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