Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer says he and his colleagues are ready to work with Republicans on an adjustment to the ACA “that stabilizes markets, that lowers premiums.” However, framing the purpose of the talks in this way discourages rank-and-file Republicans to participate in negotiation that has the singular purpose of shoring up the ACA. What is needed is a thorough, top-to-bottom negotiation between both parties over fundamental aspects of the entire health system. For example: How much flexibility should states have to run Medicaid? What can be done to bring more cost discipline to the entire system? What can be done to ensure major health entitlement programs are affordable over the long-term?
. . .
