Medicare, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act to demonstrate the party’s commitment to the issue. In comparison, the Republican platform promotes “vigorous competition” in the healthcare industry rather than supporting a universalized approach. Polling reflects similar sentiments among voters; 85% of Democrats believe that it ought to be the government’s responsibility to provide healthcare for all, while 68% of Republicans disagree. One particular form of universal healthcare, Medicare-for-All, has been gaining traction among progressive Democrats, while simultaneously becoming a topic of critique for conservative Republicans. While neither party platform makes any explicit statement on the policy, the Democratic platform expresses openness to implementing a public option for healthcare, which some have proposed ought to be a stepping stone to passing universal coverage through Medicare-for-All. Meanwhile, the Republican platform expresses general opposition to any universal public healthcare plans. Polling reflects these divisions, with 86% of Democrats supporting Medicare-for-All, compared to just 28% of Republicans.
Universal healthcare refers to a national system of health care where all citizens have access to services
